World No 1 Sze Fei-Izzuddin ready to smash goals with RTG backing
KUALA LUMPUR: World No 1 pair Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani are confident that joining the Road to Gold (RTG) programme will help them maintain their top ranking and achieve more on the international stage.
The independent pair accepted the government's offer to join RTG on Wednesday.
"We are honoured to join RTG for the first time," Sze Fei posted on Instagram.
"The additional support will help us greatly as we aim to maintain our ranking and achieve big things this year.
"A big thanks to Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh for offering us a chance to be part of the initiative."
Sze Fei-Izzuddin were previously not part of RTG, as they had yet to break into the top 10 of the world rankings.
However, a stellar run in 2024, including titles at the Japan Open, China Open and Arctic Open, saw them finish the year as world No 3, and they have since climbed to the summit.
With their inclusion in RTG, the pair will now receive added backing — from sports science support to monthly allowances — to help them prepare for major tournaments, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Still, staying in the programme won't be easy.
From 2025, RTG will implement stricter benchmarks, requiring athletes to finish in the top eight of the World Championships and the world rankings.
In 2027 and 2028, the bar will be raised even higher, with athletes needing to be in the top four of both to retain their RTG benefits.
Sze Fei-Izzuddin also face another immediate test: holding on to the No 1 spot.
Their fiercest challengers are none other than compatriots Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, the Olympic bronze medallists who are currently ranked world No 2 and also part of the RTG programme.
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