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Rashid to Justin: Unleash your inner tiger on court

Rashid to Justin: Unleash your inner tiger on court

KUALA LUMPUR: Former world No. 1 Datuk Rashid Sidek believes Justin Hoh's cautious playing style is holding him back on the international stage.
The 1996 Atlanta Olympic bronze medallist feels the world No. 43 is playing it too safe, which is stopping him from making a real breakthrough on the World Tour.
Rashid voiced concern after Justin's first-round exit at the Canada Open, where he lost to Taiwan's world No. 71 Wang Po Wei.
That defeat came just a week after Justin was knocked out in the second round of the US Open by another Taiwanese player, world No. 74 Liao Jhuo Fu.
"Justin needs to be more aggressive to instil fear in his opponents," said Rashid.
"If he doesn't add pace and power to his game, it will be difficult for him to become an established international player.
"Right now, his safe approach is giving opponents confidence to attack. He must play like a young shuttler hungry to make a mark, not someone already worried about the later rounds of a tournament.
"Look at players like Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Lin Dan, and Taufik Hidayat. They were known for their attacking flair early in their careers, and it helped them climb the world rankings quickly.
"Once they made it, they matured and evolved their style. Justin must also adjust and improve physically if he wants to go further on the World Tour."
Justin's next assignment will be the Super 300 Macau Open from July 29-Aug 3.
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