I played like a beginner: Taufik

COPENHAGEN (JP): Indonesia's men's singles Taufik Hidayat shrugged his head in disbelief after his poor performance against world number one Peter Gade Christensen in the semifinals of the Sudirman Cup between Indonesia and Denmark at the Brondby Hall on Friday evening.

The 17-year-old Sundanese said: "I don't know why I played that way. I played like a beginner. I looked like a stupid player."

Taufik's performance was well below form in the third match of the semifinals. He lost easily to the 22-year old Dane 4-15, 1- 15, who finished up with an unbeatable 3-0 scorecard in their head-to-head contests.

Taufik said when he entered the court, he was not concentrating and was unable to play to the best of his ability as he did in the 1999 All England final against Gade Christensen.

"I didn't feel tense and I was not afraid of him. I am looking forward to having my revenge on Peter Gade. But apparently I played very badly. I am ashamed of myself. I regret my performance," Taufik said.

Taufik said he had agreed to play only because the whole team had backed him.

"I didn't want to play if some of our teammates or officials disagreed. But I spoiled the chance."

Gade Christensen said he could empathize with Taufik's poor form.

"When I entered the court I was nervous. But when I looked at Taufik's face, I knew he was more nervous. I had a guilty feeling because I played too well. But if I give him one of my fingers, he wants my hand.

"I was surprised to see Taufik play below his standard. I understand that he was very confused on the court. I have experienced the same thing and I know how it feels. I clapped his shoulder and I know that he'll get over it.

"Taufik is a good player and a very talented one. In two or three years time, he will be the world's best."

Indonesia team manager Agus Wirahadikusumah said he had discussed Taufik's selection with men's singles coaches, Mulyo Handoyo and Agus Dwi Santoso, who both recommended fielding Taufik instead of world number eight Hendrawan.

"Our consideration was based on both shuttlers most recent performance. We made a decision to field Taufik and he lost. Nobody is allowed to blame him. He's still young. He must be able to overcome his psychological barrier (and become) the team's future backbone," he said. (yan)