The Value Of Criticism As A Reasonable Thing, Fajar/Rian Instead Makes Encouraging

JAKARTA - Fajar Alfian/Muhammad Rian Ardianto's couple have recently been hit by a lot of criticism. Performance that is less consistent is an excuse.

Recently, criticism has been directed at both of them after poor performances at the Malaysia Masters and Singapore Open. At the two events, Fajar/Rian immediately ran aground in the early rounds.

The world number one men's doubles assessed that the criticism was normal. Fajar/Rian took the positive side of the criticism.

"Criticism is natural, whether you want (to be) spicy or not. If we act correctly, there will be criticism, especially if it is wrong. If I think it's natural, we'll just take the positive," Fajar said at a press conference at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, Tuesday.

The world number one pair assessed that criticism from fans was a form of disappointment over their substandard performances in the previous tournament.

They turned that criticism into an encouragement to improve the quality of the game and perform better at the Indonesia Open 2023 and the next tournaments.

"It's natural because they are disappointed, maybe they have high expectations. I use them as an encouragement for us," Fajar added, as quoted from Antara.

Meanwhile, Rian said that leg injuries were the factors causing their poor performances in Malaysia and Singapore.

"Actually, the injury has been quite long, yesterday it was possible to be detained but has recently started to feel it. Before going to Malaysia, there was an ultrasound and there was a tear," said Rian.

The unfavorable condition had made them doubt whether to continue the tournament or not, even though the two tournaments were quite important to participate in because they were included in the Race to Olympic or calculated points for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"It's a bit of a dilemma because the tournament is important. But if you're here, you want to try your best and keep fighting," said Rian.

Fajar/Rian managed to improve their minor record after qualifying from the first round of the Indonesia Open 2023 by defeating Danish men's doubles Jeppe Bay/Lasse M Waylhede.

The vice-host pair won with a score of 21-15, 21-11. The advantage for the Indonesian duo was created thanks to the careful preparation that was arranged before the match," said Fajar.