Jason Teh thankful for positive and negative comments ahead of Singapore Badminton Open

SINGAPORE – Jason Teh’s story of determination and resilience en route to winning his first international title has made him the new face of Singapore badminton.

Following his exploits at the Thailand Masters on Feb 2, the 24-year-old will feature in a 10-minute short film – Countdown To The Open: Jason Teh – presented by Eagle Brand, which will premiere on YouTube in June.

The video, directed by Singapore Badminton Association (SBA) vice-president and fashion photographer David Tan, will feature the player’s preparations as he gears up for the May 27-June 1 KFF Singapore Badminton Open at the Indoor Stadium.

While Teh, whose men’s singles ranking has risen to a career-high 26th, is lapping up his new-found fame, he is also aware that it comes with a responsibility to his supporters and community.

Since his triumph in Bangkok, some critics on social media have taken issue with his tattoos, him smashing his racket after winning the final and his habit of staring at opponents after winning a point.

“Maybe it’s the way I look and how I’m in the zone during matches, but 100 per cent I never intend to disrespect my opponents,” Teh told the media at the Singapore Open launch at Parkroyal on Beach Road on Feb 19.

“Throwing the racket is not right, but I did it on the spur of the moment. I have not done that before, but I also have not been in that situation before. I was leading 17-14, and losing 18-19 after tapping into the net.

“I was thinking I was not meant to be a champion, and when I finally won, I needed to let out my emotions. I had lost seven finals before this. I think those who haven’t gone through this will not know how it feels.

“But I’m