It is an understatement to say that Malaysia hold a special place in Ratchanok Intanon’s heart, with the Thai women’s singles ace having won four titles here in a six-year span.

Intanon claimed the 2016 Malaysia Open title, before winning back-to- back Malaysia Masters silverware in 2018 & 2019.

The world number 16 claimed her fourth title in the country when she won the 2022 Malaysia Open title, an achievement she treasures dearly.

“I really enjoy playing here. People used to tell me that I have so much fortune playing in Malaysia, but I did not believe it. But then I started to believe it after winning more here. The venue is great, eventhough it can be windy, I can still control the shuttle.

“I feel like I have the ability to produce some of my best form here,” she told Stadium Astro.

Still only 29, Intanon has evolved from a green teenager to a matured performer on court.

Intanon was only 18 when she made history by becoming the youngest singles world champion when she beat then world number one and reigning Olympic champion Li Xuerui back in 2013.

Now, still in her prime but armed with bags of experience, the friendly shuttler laughed affectionately at the mention of her age.

“I am already 30 now!” she exclaimed with a laugh.

She also prefers to take on a more relaxed approach to her game.

“I just want to enjoy my game now. When I had success after winning the World Championships and other titles after that, I got some external pressure. Players like Carolina Marin and Tai Tzu-ying, their standard is perhaps reaching the quarter-finals in every event.

“Eventhough I may be not as successful as them, I want to play freely and show people badminton is a great sport,” she added.

Intanon overcame her national team-mate Pornpawong Chochuwong 21-17, 21-14 to move into the Malaysia Open quarter-finals.