I played like a beginner: Taufik

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)