German no.1 shuttler Zwiebler enjoys competition, atmosphere

The Jakarta Post ,  Jakarta   |  Fri, 05/09/2008 9:38 AM  |  Sports

UBER READY: Several badminton players Thursday practice for the Thomas and Uber Cup competition while workers in the audience stands erect what would be a TV monitor inside Bung Karno Sports Hall, Jakarta (JP/P.J.Leo)

Germany's number one badminton player, Marc Zwiebler, says he relishes the competition and the typically raucous Indonesian audience off the court.

"It is good to play here although I am still a bit tired," Zwiebler said at the practice session sidelines on Thursday at the Bung Karno sports hall.

The German team arrived in Jakarta Wednesday evening.

He says he loves playing in Indonesia although he has to cope with the hot weather.

"I always look forward to playing in Indonesia because it has attractive spectators," he said.

Dozens of world class badminton players have already practiced at the hall ahead of the biennial men and womens' team championship tournament which begins Sunday.

The Uber and Thomas Cup organizers have arranged practice schedules for all 16 competing countries, each being given a minimum two-day training session, beginning Thursday.

As the host team, Indonesia has the advantage of practicing from as early as Tuesday.

As the number one player on his team, Zwiebler said he had hoped to be paired against his favorite player Taufik Hidayat when Germany meets Indonesia in their Group D encounter.

Taufik had been Indonesia's best-ranked player before he dropped behind Sony Dwi Kuncoro following the former's no-show at the recent Asian Championship in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

"It must be a fun game should I meet him in front of the Indonesians," said the 24-year-old Zwiebler.

"But it is also okay if I face Sony Dwi Kuncoro in the first game," said the world's No. 30.

He said Sony would be tough to beat.

"But he will be under pressure as he is playing at home. On the other hand, Germany has nothing to lose," said Zwiebler.

He recalled his past wins over Indonesian players, including wins over Simon Santosa four years ago and Tomy Sugiarto this year.

Thailand is the other team in Group D. Germany's best run to date is reaching the quarterfinals in 2002 and 2004. (ewd)

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