KUALA LUMPUR: Men's doubles ace Soh Wooi Yik is gearing up to add another achievement to his family's impressive badminton legacy as the Paris Olympics approach.
Recent years have been fruitful for the 26-year-old Wooi Yik.
He marked his Olympic debut in Tokyo 2020, held in 2021, with partner Aaron Chia, securing a bronze medal.
A year later, the duo made history as Malaysia's first world badminton champions, ending a 45-year wait for the nation.
For Wooi Yik, these titles hold special significance due to his family's deep roots in badminton.
His father, Soh Goon Chup, was an established national doubles player who partnered with Ong Beng Teong and won bronze at the 1983 Sea Games in Singapore.
Wooi Yik also draws inspiration from his legendary uncle, Soo Beng Kiang, his mother's brother. Beng Kiang is best known for his partnership with Cheah Soon Kit, with whom he won silver at the 1993 World Championships.
Notably, the pair helped Malaysia clinch their fifth Thomas Cup title in 1992 when the country hosted the prestigious tournament.
Wooi Yik is acutely aware that he carries not only the hopes of a nation but also the proud legacy of a family steeped in badminton excellence.
"My family always tells me that I've already achieved what they were unable to, and they're proud of me," said Wooi Yik.
"This Olympics presents another chance for me to bring further joy to my family and make them even prouder."
His uncle, Beng Kiang, made two Olympic appearances, with his best outing being a fourth-place finish at Atlanta 1996.
Partnering with Tan Kim Her, the pair lost to eventual gold medalists Rexy Mainaky-Ricky Subagja in the semi-finals and were subsequently defeated by another Indonesian duo, Denny Kantono-Antonius Ariantho, in the bronze medal match.
Despite falling short of an Olympic medal himself, Beng Kiang has played a mentoring role for Wooi Yik over the years, ensuring the family's dream of winning the elusive gold for Malaysia continues.
Wooi Yik admitted that he still seeks guidance from Beng Kiang, even though he has established himself as a world-class player.
"My uncle too had a close encounter at the Olympics but was unable to secure a medal," he explained.
"This past month, I've met up with him and he's helped me a lot. He's shared many experiences and given me great input.
"He's taught me how to approach the game, how to be mentally prepared, and the importance of looking after myself.
"This will surely help me adapt to the situation at the Olympics.
"I will continue to seek advice from him while in Paris."
Regarding the nation's immense hope for them to bring home the gold, Wooi Yik believes it's nothing new for him and Aaron to handle.
"It is something we're already used to," Wooi Yik said.
"It's not a concern for us. Regardless of the expectations placed on us to deliver, we will go into battle striving to prove what we're capable of."
He added: "What Aaron and I need to do is stay focused."
