KUALA LUMPUR: How far can Ng Eain Yow go in squash?
The world No. 15 could fully realise his potential after he completes his business management degree at Bristol University in England next month.
The 26-year-old will be able to focus solely on squash, which could further boost his chances of breaking into the top 10.
Eain Yow grabbed attention at the ongoing British Open in Birmingham when he defeated two Egyptian players, namely world No. 13 Aly Abou Eleinen and No. 6 Karim Abdel Gawad, en route to the quarter-finals before losing 11-7, 11-4, 11-3 to two-time champion Paul Coll of New Zealand on Friday.
It was Eain Yow's first quarter-final appearance at the British Open, regarded as the second biggest tournament in the sport after the World Championships.
Eain Yow, who is set to move two spots to No. 13 next week, achieved it despite his busy schedule with studies at Bristol University.
Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia director Major (rtd) S. Maniam praised Eain Yow for his performance in Birmingham.
"Eain Yow shows he has the potential to beat the top players. I believe he will achieve more breakthroughs after he completes his studies.
"He will have more time to train and polish his game. Hopefully, he can break into the top 10 soon.
Maniam said Eain Yow's new base will likely be in the United States or England.
"He will travel to the US to scout for a new base. However, he is still open to remaining in England," said Maniam.
After the British Open breakthrough, Eain Yow, who won the German Open this year, will be motivated when he leads the national team into the Asian Team Championships in Dalian, China, from June 12-16.
Addeen Idrakie, Syafiq Kamal and C. Ameeshenraj will make up the team.
The women's team will comprise world No. 10 S. Sivasangari, Rachel and the Azman sisters Aifa and Aira.
Malaysia are the top seeds in both the men and women's events.