KUALA LUMPUR: National badminton player Justin Hoh posted a moving tribute to his former coach, Misbun Sidek, yesterday.
The legendary Misbun stepped down recently as the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) development director, after failing to make any significant impact since taking over the post in 2020.
Justin, who was part of the squad that returned empty handed from the World Junior Championships in Santander, Spain, last year, shared several pictures of him and Misbun on social media, with a caption: "I know that many people outside doubt you and think your coaching methods are outdated.
"Although I have been with you for a short three years, I want to say that you are the best coach in my eyes.
"Thank you for teaching me how to be a disciplined athlete. Without you, I wouldn't be where I am today.
"Once a teacher, forever a father. Thank you coach Misbun."
Touted as a future singles star, Justin was promoted to train with the seniors late last year. The 19-year-old went on to bag the Uganda International Challenge, and reached the final of the Iran IC, both in February.
His strong showing even saw him move into the world's top 50.
However, the Kuala Lumpur-born shuttler suffered an Achilles tendon injury during training in April, which resulted in him missing the Phnom Sea Games in May.
While Justin has returned to light court training, he is only expected to see competitive action later this year.
Meanwhile, the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) reiterated that there was no bad blood in its separation with Misbun.
BAM deputy president, Datuk V. Subramaniam told Timesport that everything was done in the best interest of the national junior squad.
"Misbun is an icon and a legend. In fact, we spoke at length, and I even gave Misbun some time to think about what he wanted to do.
"He is not a bad coach, but sometimes things just don't work out the way we expect them to.
"Right now, as I had mentioned earlier, we will get our junior players, those going to the World Championships in September, to train with the senior players.
"They will still have targets but we will announce them in due time," said Subramaniam, who also led the special task force that deliberated on Misbun's fate.