SEPANG: National mixed doubles coach Nova Widianto admitted that there were moments when he lost patience with newly crowned world champions Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei.
Nova said coaching the duo has been challenging due to various issues though has stuck with them through thick and thin.
“As coaches, we have to be patient but to be honest, there were moments that made me angry,” said Nova at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport today (Sept 2).
“There were problems at almost every tournament. It is, however, our job (as coaches) to guide them and give them motivation.
“Perhaps that is why Tang Jie-Ee Wei feel grateful as despite the problems they faced, I was always there to support and help them rise again.”
Nova disclosed that the biggest issue faced by the pair previously was their inability to accept losses.
“There were times when they could not accept defeat, they felt that they had to perform (well) all the time. This made it hard for them to move on,” said Nova.
“I always reminded them that it is okay to lose, what is important is that you continue working hard and rise again. Don’t dwell on the losses.”
Tang Jie-Ee Wei had briefly split up earlier this year after a slump in form before reuniting at the Singapore Open in late May.
They shored up their weaknesses in their second stint together and looked much more mature as a pair.
“A lot of pairs have the skills, but if their character and communications skills are not aligned, they cannot become champions,” added Nova.
“In Paris they showed very good composure, confidence and communication. That was the key to their victory.”
Tang Jie-Ee Wei, seeded fourth, stunned China‘s world No. 2 Jiang Zhen Bang-Wei Ya Xin 21-15, 21-14 in the mixed doubles final in Paris on Sunday (Aug 31).
It was a historic moment as Malaysia had never won the mixed doubles title at the world meet before.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
