Hoo Pang Ron Stays Grounded Ahead of Hylo Open
Malaysia’s mixed doubles shuttler Hoo Pang Ron is enjoying a strong run of form. However, he wants to stay focused on improving his game rather than getting carried away by recent success.
Pang Ron and his partner Lai Pei Jing have enjoyed an impressive October. They reached the Denmark Open semi-finals two weeks ago before finishing runners-up at the French Open last Sunday.
Their recent results have lifted them from world No. 51 to No. 24. The pair will now look to continue their progress at the Hylo Open in Saarbrucken, Germany, which begins today.
Pang Ron, 28, became an independent player in April. Despite the growing attention, he remains focused on learning from every match and keeping the pressure under control.
“Every match is important. We are always learning,” said Pang Ron.
“We just go step by step and never give ourselves too much pressure.
“But of course, this run of form boosts our confidence.”
Pang Ron and Pei Jing Build a Strong Partnership
The pair have made quick progress since joining forces six months ago. They have already reached two major finals, finishing runners-up at the China Masters last month and the French Open last Sunday.
On both occasions, they lost to China’s world No. 1 pair Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping. Still, Pang Ron believes those experiences have helped him develop both on and off the court.
“Personally, I feel I’ve learnt how to enjoy and control my emotions a little better.”
The Malaysian also understands that strong results bring higher expectations. He wants to stay calm and focus on each match instead of worrying about the pressure to win.
Hylo Open Offers a Chance to End Title Drought
The absence of Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping at the Hylo Open could give Pang Ron and Pei Jing a better chance to challenge for the title. However, Pang Ron knows they still face a tough road ahead.
The Malaysian is chasing his first title in seven years. His last victory came at the 2019 Hyderabad Open, where he partnered former mixed doubles player Cheah Yee See.
Despite the opportunity, Pang Ron is not taking anything for granted. The pair are not seeded, which could make their path through the draw more difficult.
“The draw won’t be easy as we’re not seeded.”
Independent Career Brings New Challenges
Recent success has also brought more attention from potential sponsors. As an independent player, Pang Ron must manage the costs of training, travel and competition.
He hopes to keep delivering strong performances and attract more support as he continues his career.
“Hopefully I can continue to impress. It’s not easy covering all the expenses as an independent player.”
With confidence growing and valuable experience behind them, Pang Ron and Pei Jing will aim to make another strong run at the Hylo Open. Their focus remains on steady progress, match by match.
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