Malaysia’s veteran women’s doubles badminton player, Vivian Hoo, officially announced her retirement today at the Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil, bringing an end to her illustrious career spanning over a decade.
Vivian and her partner, Lim Chiew Sien, bowed out in the second round of the season-opening Malaysia Open after losing 6-21, 5-21 to top-seeded Chinese pair Liu Sheng Shu-Tan Ning. Despite the defeat, the atmosphere turned emotional as fans rose to their feet, applauding Vivian’s contributions to Malaysian badminton as she walked off the court for the final time.
Speaking to reporters, Vivian reflected on her career and outlined her plans to remain active in the sport.
“Although I am hanging up my racket, I will still contribute to badminton by opening my own academy in Balakong, Selangor. My hope is to produce talented players, especially women, as Malaysia has always faced a shortage of female players. This is my wish after retirement,” she shared.
Vivian Hoo leaves the sport as one of Malaysia’s most successful women’s doubles players. Among her many achievements:
- Two Commonwealth Games gold medals: Partnering Woon Khe Wei in Glasgow 2014 and Chow Mei Kuan in Gold Coast 2018.
- Mixed team gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
- Bronze medal at the 2014 Asian Games in Incheon, partnering Woon Khe Wei.
- Representing Malaysia at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she competed at the pinnacle of the sport.
Vivian’s partner, Lim Chiew Sien, expressed her admiration and gratitude for the opportunity to play alongside such an accomplished player.
“She is one of the best partners I’ve ever had. Vivian is very mature, professional, and an inspiring senior to me. I will always treasure the time we shared on court,” Chiew Sien remarked.
However, four Malaysian pairs advanced to the quarter-finals and will compete for semi-final spots tomorrow:
- Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun (Men’s Doubles)
- Ong Yew Sin-Teo Ee Yi (Men’s Doubles)
- Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei (Mixed Doubles)
- Goh Soon Huat-Shevon Lai Jemie (Mixed Doubles)
Credit Photo : BERNAMA
