Jun Hao's early Japan Open exit worries coach Jonassen
World No. 24 Jun Hao was outclassed 21-12, 21-14 by France's world No. 8 Alex Lanier at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium on Tuesday, and Jonassen didn't mince his words.
"We lack the consistency to compete against this kind of playing style and level," said the Dane bluntly.
"I'm also quite worried about how far off we are today from being able to push and make Lanier uncomfortable."
Although the 26-year-old Malaysian never threw in the towel, Jonassen admitted Lanier's intensity and clinical execution left Jun Hao on the back foot throughout.
"Jun Hao tried his best but never got comfortable due to the pace Lanier was pushing. That led to him feeling pressured in most rallies," he added.
The defeat not only ended Jun Hao's campaign early but also cast serious doubt on his readiness for next month's World Championships in Paris.
"Before this tournament, I was looking for answers about our level ahead of the World Championships. Today, I got some, and we have a long way to go," said Jonassen.
Jun Hao will be hoping for a better outing at next week's Super 1000 China Open.
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