TEENAGE squash sensation Aifa Azman is certainly flying high right now.
Buoyed by her Malaysian Open triumph, a Professional Squash Association (PSA) World Tour Bronze event, the 19-year-old has made a massive leap up the world rankings. She is now ranked a career-high No 36.
It is certainly a huge jump for Aifa as she was only ranked No 69 in the world last month. She was one of the biggest climbers up the rankings this month.
The huge leap also saw her overtake compatriot Rachel Arnold, who is ranked 39th in the world.
Aifa is now the new national No 2 behind world No 29 S. Sivasangari.
She is now keen to make a bigger impression on the world stage.
"Actually, I had a target to reach the top 40 last year, but it was not doable since there were no tournaments due to Covid-19," said Aifa yesterday.
"And I certainly did not expect it this year, as at the start of the season, we were not sure what tournaments we could compete in.
"But I am definitely happy to win the Malaysian Open and reach the top 40 this fast.
"The main thing for me now is that I can compete in higher tier events, starting with the Tournament of Champions (TOC) in New York in January.
"I am excited as the game will be a lot different. I am eager to experience it and compete against different opponents."
For now, however, Aifa's focus is to help Malaysia do well at the ongoing Asian Team Championships.
She certainly did her part well by helping the team finish as Group B winners. They will face Japan in the semi-finals today.
"I think all of us are in good shape, and we will definitely give it our best shot against Japan," added Aifa