Taufik Wishes Philippine Open a Success!

Hello Philippines!  I’m very excited to be working with Bingo Bonanza to support the promotions of the first ever Philippine Open Badminton Championships!  Unfortunately, I could not be with you today as I’ve incurred an injury to my leg that will take some serious rehabilitation if I’m going to participate in the Thomas Cup Qualifiers next month.  I am happy that there is a new IBF event in the Philippines because it is one of my favorite places to play in all of Asia.  Also, aside from the All-England, this will be the only “major” IBF event that I haven’t won!!

 

The world of badminton is getting more and more competitive.  When I broke into the game back in 1998, the traditional “powerhouse” countries were in control of the sport.  This included primarily Indonesia, Malaysia, China, Denmark and Korea.  However, now you are seeing players bringing new countries into the top levels of the sport.  We see world champions from the UK, top-level players competing for France and the Netherlands and here in the Philippines, the Asuncions have made a great name for themselves.  The Philippines now needs to develop its own IBF Open event in order to create champions.

 

Events such as the Philippine Open will help to develop more and more players of world class level here in the Philippines.  I understand that the sport is really taking off these days here.  I must admit, from what I’ve seen, the physique of Filipinos is identical to most of the world champions that I’ve played against.  The only element needed for major success by Filipino players is more international competitions and some more top-class coaches helping them to cultivate their talents.

 

When I was growing up, the Indonesia Open was the event that I strived to play in every year.  I was able to watch on my countrymen on TV competing against—and usually beating—top players from around the world.  With your own IBF Open event in the Philippines, you will see that young players will be inspired to reach new heights against the players who come here to compete.  I hope that I can win a few Philippine Open titles before my time is up!

 

I’d like to thank my friends at Bingo Bonanza—without whom this event would not be possible—and also the Philippine Badminton Association and IMG for their support in developing the event.  I hope to see you all there at the event in March!

 

 

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Issued by IMG Badminton on behalf of the 2006 Philippine Open Badminton Championships.  Should you require more information, please contact Miss Princess Galura at +(63) (2) 751-6751.