Liliyana Natsir: I Retired in Peace

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian badminton athlete Liliyana Natsir has officially retired. Daihatsu Indonesia Masters 2019 is her final match along with Tontowi Ahmad.

Both showed consistency on the match as the world number four player made it to the final against the number one players of the mixed double from China, Zheng Siwei/Huang Yaqiong. Even though they failed to be a champion, Liliyana satisfied with her performance.

“We can deliver all abilities competing with the young and strong pair,” said Liliyana at Istora Senayan, Jakarta, Sunday, January 27.

The 33-year-old woman also claimed that she and Tontowi did not have frequent training to face Indonesia Masters this year.

However, Liliyana was grateful that Tontowi was with her in various world tournaments despite not bringing home a title in the two final matches.

Throughout her career with Tontowi, Butet, as she usually called, treasured All England Badminton Championships and 2016 Olympics the most. “I can retire in peace,” she remarked.

Before the final match was kicked off, the Indonesia Masters committee held a farewell ceremony which she deemed would be an unforgettable moment. “I am touched,” Liliyana Natsir said.

ADITYA BUDIMAN