KUALA LUMPUR: National backup shuttler Eogene Ewe is aware his future with the national team depends on breaking into the world's top 32 within the next two years.
The 19-year-old has witnessed firsthand how his seniors were dropped after failing to meet targets,
making him acutely aware that time is not on his side.
The BA of Malaysia has shifted away from its previous approach of allowing players extended development time, now focusing on retaining only top prospects.
Last month's downsizing saw the exit of Kok Jing Hong, Jan Jireh Lee, Chua Kim Sheng, and others, each with less than two years on the senior squad. Eogene, who survived the cut along with Justin Hoh, is now one of only four players in the men's singles squad, alongside elite players Ng Tze Yong and Leong Jun Hao.
"There's certainly pressure to prove my worth, but I'm taking it in my stride – it's a motivator," said Eogene.
"I focus on improving daily. If you're not progressing, you're heading for the exit – I understand that completely."
"At 19, I've set myself a clear target: reaching the top 32 by 2026.
"The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are my ultimate goal, and to achieve that, I need to be competing at the highest level regularly by 2027."
Since his promotion to the senior team late last year, Eogene's performance has been modest, with just two semi-final appearances at International Challenge events.
Yet, he's reached one key milestone --- breaking into the top 100.
"Getting to world No. 99 is a milestone for me and a solid base for 2025, where I'm targeting the top 64," he said.
"I still need to lift my game. Against higher-ranked players, I struggle with their skill and strategy."
"The men's singles competition is increasingly competitive due to high participation numbers.
"Lower-ranked players like us often have to navigate through qualifying rounds, making stamina crucial.
"But I'm motivated to overcome these challenges – every top player has faced similar hurdles on their path to success."