Wong Choong Hann's magic is beginning to rub off on his star pupil Lee Cheuk Yiu, who came within a whisker of claiming his biggest career title on Sunday. 

The 27-year-old finished as runner-up at the just concluded India Open after falling 21-23, 17-21 against China's Shi Yu Qi in a thrilling contest.

Despite the defeat, Wong will be proud of his charge's performance who produced a fine run to reach the final having defeated K.Srikanth, Kunlavut Vitidsarn, Anthony Ginting and Kodai Naraoka.

Lee's statement after the final indicated he has not reached his peak under the tutelage of his Malaysian coach just yet.

"I haven't arrived yet. This tournament I'm performing better, but I think I can be better and stronger. I still feel its not enough.

"I haven't arrived at that level, but I'm starting to feel it now," he told the Badminton World Federation after beating Naraoka.

Wong has played a pivotal role in the resurgence of the world number 18.

From the sidelines, the former national men's singles shuttler provides Lee with constant pep-talk and advice throughout his matches.

There is a feeling that Lee is due a major breakthrough after reaching first his Super 750 event final on Sunday.

At the Malaysia Open, Wong also almost guided Lee to a shock victory over Viktor Axelsen, but the Hong Kong star wilted at the end.

The 46-year-old Wong took over the Hong Kong men's singles team last July after Wong Tat Meng left them to return to Malaysia to coach Lee Zii Jia.

Besides Lee, Wong has another shuttler in the top 20 who is Angus Ng Ka Long.