KUCHING: Fresh off a golden campaign at the 2025 Sarawak State-Level MSS Badminton Championship, 15-year-old Athan Yang Zhi Yung is beaming with pride after capturing both the boys’ singles and doubles titles.
This follows an inspiring comeback story after his recent recovery from a knee injury.
Athan, representing Chung Hua Middle School No. 4 and trained under JPRO Badminton Academy-KCH, Athan overcame a field of tough opponents to clinch the coveted double win.
“I felt very happy and proud of myself as I could win both singles and doubles titles after my knee injury recovery,” he said.
The most challenging moment came in the doubles final against a strong team from Miri.
“We played a rubber game, and I just tried to keep my mind calm and make as few mistakes as possible,” he shared with Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
His success is backed by the guidance of his uncle – who also happens to be his first coach and lifelong mentor in the sport.
“My uncle is my idol. He helped me start my badminton journey,” Athan said with gratitude.
Now with MSS Sarawak behind him, Athan is setting his sights on the national stage, with the MSSM tournament in Perak next on his radar.
“Yes, I am preparing for MSSM, and I hope to join more national and international competitions in the future,” he said.
Although he is not yet part of the Sarawak squad for SUKMA 2026, Athan remains hopeful.
“I hope I can be one of them at the next SUKMA,” he said.
His coaches at JPRO, Kong Chee Kiet and Rajeev Bijoy, are confident in his potential.
“We are committed to preparing Athan for the upcoming MSSM tournament in Perak. We hope he can bring home a medal for Sarawak,” they said.
With his winning spirit and strong support system, Athan is emerging as one of Sarawak’s brightest young badminton talents – and he is just getting started.
