KUALA LUMPUR: National singles shuttler Jacky Kok picked up the silver medal in the Vietnam International Challenge after losing to Thailand’s Puritat Arree in a fierce final battle that lasted 83 minutes.
Kok, ranked world No 86, put up a strong fight before succumbing to a 21-23, 21-17, 15-21 defeat, which ended his winning streak of two previous victories over his Thai opponent.
Following in Kok’s footsteps were professional mixed doubles pair Jimmy Wong-Lai Pei Jing who lost to Hong Kong’s Tang Chun Man-Ng Tsz Yau, 19-21, 19-21 in straight games.
Despite being runners-up, Jimmy-Pei Jing’s success was notable for having made it to the final in their first tournament as a team.
Pei Jing is now trying to adjust to a new partnership after his previous teammate, Tan Kian Meng, announced his retirement earlier this year.
Kian Meng-Pei Jing wrapped up their competitive careers at the All England championship in early March.