Justin lightens up after finally getting green light for comeback


PETALING JAYA: Men’s singles shuttler Justin Hoh’s (pic) agonising wait is over.

The 19-year-old is set to return to competitive action at the World Tour Super 300 Syed Modi International in Lucknow from Nov 28-Dec 3 after an eight-month injury layoff.

Justin had to stay patient through his rehabilitation process after undergoing surgery in April to repair a rupture in the left Achilles tendon in his leg.

The youngster was relieved after finally receiving medical clearance to compete.

“I really missed competing and I’m excited to finally get the clearance to play,” said Justin.

“I was very worried before the test to determine if I was fully fit and ready for tournament action.

“This was my second test after I had failed the first last month and had to miss the Malaysian International Challenge as a result.

“So, I’m glad to get the green light this time,” added Justin.

Justin, who had dropped from No. 53 to No. 98 in the rankings during his long spell on the sidelines, will not have it easy in his opening match in India as he has been pitted against teammate and world No. 38 Leong Jun Hao.

Justin had stunned Jun Hao en route to capturing the Malaysian International title last year but knows he faces a tougher task this time.

“It will be a good match against Jun Hao. We have faced each other once before in tournaments and I beat him but that was before my injury,” said Justin.

“This time it will be 50-50 and I will just give my best. The most important thing for me is to get back the tournament feeling first.”

The other Malaysian men’s singles players in the fray will be Cheam June Wei, Soong Joo Ven and Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin.

Justin will also compete in the Indian Masters from Dec 5-10 which will be his last tournament of the year.

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