Pearly-Thinaah now the hunted in world badminton
The world No. 3 women's doubles pair have become a serious threat on the World Tour, and even badminton powerhouse China are beginning to take notice.
Former international Woon Khe Wei believes Pearly-Thinaah's rapid rise has top nations on high alert, especially after their stunning run at last week's Japan Open.
The Malaysians shocked home favourites and world No. 2 Chiharu Shida-Nami Matsuyama 21-13, 21-11 in the semi-finals, before falling 21-15, 21-14 to China's world No. 1 Liu Sheng Shu-Tan Ning in the final.
The back-to-back runners-up finish — following a similar result at last month's Indonesia Open — came hot on the heels of their four-year contract extension with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
"After the Japan Open, rival nations will definitely be more worried," said Khe Wei, a 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist.
"Pearly-Thinaah have shown they can apply serious pressure on the world's best. Even China's top pairs are now preparing specifically to face them.
"Reaching their first Super 750 final is a breakthrough. It justifies their ranking among the world's top three."
Khe Wei believes the pair's new aggressive approach, coupled with a strong coach-player relationship, could see them go even further at this week's China Open in Changzhou.
"They've been more confident and fearless lately. Now that the contract issue is settled, they're more relaxed and focused — on and off court," she added.
"Financially, they're secure. They don't have that stress anymore, and that's a big relief for any athlete.
"Their partnership with national coach Rosman Razak has also flourished. He's brought structure and clarity to their game, helped them refine their strategies, and kept them composed in pressure situations.
"He communicates well, and his tactical input has elevated their performance, especially in big matches."
Pearly-Thinaah will start their China Open campaign on Wednesday against world No. 42 Carmen Ting-Ong Xin Yee in Changzhou
They're on course for rematches against Shida-Matsuyama and Sheng Shu-Tan Ning, as they chase their maiden Super 1000 crown.
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