KUALA LUMPUR – National women’s squash player Chan Yi Wen hangs her racquet after serving the national team for 10 years.
Her announcement came following the conclusion of the 39th WCE National Squash Championship at the National Squash Centre, Jalan Duta yesterday.
Yi Wen, 24, explained that she had to make this decision for her future.
“Leaving the competitive squash scene is not an easy decision. However, I have a good opportunity ahead and will be starting work soon. At 24, having just completed my master’s degree, I began to consider whether to continue in sports or transition into the corporate world.
“If I were to join the corporate sector later, around 28 or 29, it would be more challenging to start a career. I consulted with my family and a psychologist and did a lot of mental preparation for this transition. For any athlete, this change is never easy,” said Yi Wen.
Throughout her career as a national player, Yi Wen has won several titles, including the Chongqing International Classic, Squash Melbourne Open, North Coast Open, and most recently, the Hong Kong PSA Challenge Cup in February.
Her final competition was the PSA World Championship in Cairo, Egypt, in May.
The Kedah-born player also shared one of her fondest memories with the national team, which was winning the bronze medal at the 2022 World Team Championship in Cairo, Egypt.
“During that time, we never expected to be among the top four teams in the tournament. It was a great memory to fight together and achieve our goal.
“Similarly, at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games in the Philippines, when my father passed away, Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM) provided full support and trust. They quickly arranged for me to return home for my father’s funeral, and SRAM was always there for me whenever I needed them,” said Yi Wen, who ultimately won the silver medal at the biennial sporting event.
At the announcement ceremony, SRAM President Gerard Monteiro, and the Director of Coaching, Major (R) S. Maniam were also present to express their gratitude for Yi Wen’s dedication and contributions. – August 5, 2024