In the span of just six months, Carmen Ting’s badminton journey has undergone a remarkable transformation, and now, the young talent is eagerly preparing for one of the biggest milestones of her career.
Back in October, Carmen played a vital role in helping Malaysia’s national junior squad clinch a bronze medal at the World Junior Mixed Team Championships in Nanchang, China. It was a proud achievement for the then 18-year-old, marking her as a rising star within the country’s badminton scene.
Fast forward to April, and Carmen, now 19, finds herself once again on Chinese soil — but this time, the stakes are even higher. She has been called up to represent Malaysia at the prestigious Sudirman Cup, stepping into the senior squad for the first time. The tournament, featuring the world’s top mixed teams, kicks off tomorrow, and Carmen is ready to embrace the challenge head-on.
Facing a New Level of Competition
Carmen is fully aware that competing at the senior level will be a completely different ballgame. The intensity, speed, and tactical demands of senior international badminton are far greater than those she encountered in junior competitions.
“This is going to be a brand-new experience for me. Thе соmреtіtіоn wіll be tougher, thе opponents ѕtrоngеr, аnd thе рrеѕѕurе much hіghеr. But I’m looking forward to it,” said the Johor-born shuttler, her voice brimming with excitement.
As the youngest player in Malaysia’s 2025 Sudirman Cup squad, Carmen could easily feel overwhelmed. However, she credits the warm support and mentorship of her more seasoned teammates for helping her adjust and remain focused.
“The seniors have been really encouraging. They’ve given me advice, shared their experiences, and helped me feel like I belong here. That means a lot,” she added.
A New Partnership, A New Opportunity
Adding another layer of intrigue to Carmen’s debut is the shift in her doubles partnership. Traditionally paired with Ong Xin Yee during her junior days, Carmen has now been teamed up with Go Pei Kee for the Sudirman Cup.
This new pairing promises a fresh and exciting dynamic for Malaysia. Bringing together two energetic players eager to make their mark.
“I’ve been working closely with Pei Kee in training. Our styles complement each other well, and we’re both determined to give our best if given the chance to play,” Carmen explained. “This is a great opportunity for both of us to grow as a partnership.”
Whіlе Cаrmеn and Pеі Kее’ѕ rоаd to the mаtсhdау lineup won’t bе еаѕу. With Mаlауѕіа’ѕ tор wоmеn’ѕ doubles duо, Pеаrlу Tan аnd M. Thіnааh, firmly holding the first-choice spot — the young pair are staying ready and positive.
Eyes on the Prize, Step by Step
Malaysia’s Sudirman Cup campaign kicks off tomorrow with a clash against France. While it’s unlikely that Carmen and Pei Kee will feature in the opening tie. There’s a strong possibility they could be called into action in Malaysia’s second group match against Australia on Tuesday.
For Carmen, every moment in this environment is a chance to learn, improve, and inch closer to becoming a regular fixture at the highest level.
“I’m not putting too much pressure on myself. Right now, it’s about gaining experience, absorbing as much as I can, and proving that I’m ready for senior-level challenges,” she said.
Her steady mindset, coupled with her undeniable talent. Suggests that this is just the beginning of a promising career at the senior level. As Carmen Ting continues her climb, Malaysian badminton fans have every reason to be excited about the next chapter of her journey.
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