World junior champ Alwi looks up to Chong Wei as his idol
Jumping shot: Indonesia’s Alwi Farhan in action against Saudi Arabia’s Muath Alghamdi during the Group D match.

PETALING JAYA: Rising Indonesian shuttler Alwi Farhan likes playing a fast, attacking game, just like his idol Datuk Lee Chong Wei.

The current world junior champion said Chong Wei, who is a three-time Olympic silver medallist, is his source of inspiration as they have similarities in their style of play.

Alwi, making his debut for Indonesia in the Asia Team Championships in Shah Alam, said he is awed by the breath-taking attacking style of Chong Wei.

“Chong Wei is my favourite player as I like his attacking style of play. I also like to play fast, aggressive like him and I hope I can become a successful player in the senior level,” said Alwi.

“Among the Indonesian players, I’m like Anthony (Ginting). I also get a lot of advice from him.

“Ginting said that it is always tough moving up from a junior to senior but one has to be patient and keep working hard to achieve success.

“As for me, I need to be mentally and physically stronger and also keep improving my techniques to do better.”

Alwi began his action in the event with an easy 21-2, 21-10 against Muath Alghamdi in the second singles against Saudi Arabia where Indonesia won 5-0 in Group D.

Indonesia have left out Ginting and Jonatan Christie from their side where Chico Aura and Yohanes Marcellyno are the other singles players.

However, Alwi believes Indonesia will be aiming to reach the final this time as Leo Rolly-Daniel Marthin and Shohibul Fikri-Bagas Maulana have added strength in the doubles.

In another match, top seeds China blanked Hong Kong 5-0 to start their Group A campaign in fiery style yesterday.
Badminton,Alwi Farhan,Asia Team Championships
PETALING JAYA: Rising Indonesian shuttler Alwi Farhan likes playing a fast, attacking game, just like his idol Datuk Lee Chong Wei.