Shuttling from singles to doubles works wonders for Yap

PETALING JAYA: Shuttler Amanda Yap is reaping the rewards after switching from women’s singles to doubles.

The 19-year-old made the decision to permanently change to the doubles in April after failing to produce good results in the singles.

Amanda was overlooked twice by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) last year during selection trials and a foot injury also threatened to derail the youngster’s career.

Amanda though refused to throw in the towel and combined with Ho Lo Ee to capture the Maldives International Series in August after stunning BAM’s Valeree Siow-Go Pei Kee 21-18, 9-21, 21-18 in the final.

The victory earned the former a place in the national team.

“BAM sent us an offer letter after we won the title in Maldives,” said Amanda.

“I was surprised but happy to get a place in BAM after I was rejected twice last year when I attended the trials for singles.

“I made the decision to change to the doubles after I suffered a severe foot injury last year.

“After the injury, I found it difficult to run. In the singles, I need to cover the whole court well and I could not do that.

“It was not an easy transition from singles to doubles and I’m still getting used to everything.”

On her targets after this, Amanda said: “I’m currently ranked 111th in the world with Lo Ee and I want to break into the top 100.

“I need to improve my understanding with her and also my performance.

“So far, I can cope with the training in BAM.

“My coach Hoon Thien How can pinpoint my weaknesses quickly and gives me useful advice too. He has helped me to improve my smashing.”

Amanda-Lo Ee are set to open their campaign in the KL Masters today against junior compatriots Vannee Gobi-Clarissa San at the Titiwangsa Stadium.