Boonsak Ponsana Interview – Thailand’s Best Singles Player

Boonsak Ponsana is one of the most experienced players, he has played
against players like Taufik Hidayat, Sony Dwi Kuncoro and Lin Dan. He
has even beaten Taufik Hidayat, Lin Dan and Kenneth Jonassen before!

He came accross as a really humble player when we interviewed him. His
achievements include winning the Aviva Open Singapore Super Series 2007
and Indian Open Grand Prix. Many consider him as the best player in his
country.

Find out more as he shares his career highlights and also gave some advice to beginners in badminton.

When did you start playing badminton?
When I was 9 years old. At that age, I played with my parents for the purpose of exercise.

Why did you choose badminton as your career?
I tried many sports such as soccer and tennis but when I first tried out badminton, I liked it more than other sports.

Is badminton popular in Thailand?
No, but I think it is getting more and more popular nowadays.

When did you first get to play for Thailand?
When I was 16 years old, about 13 years ago.

How many hours do you train a week?
I train 6 days a week every mornings and afternoons. Each session is 3 hours.

Who is your favourite badminton player?
Peter Gade is my favourite player. But now, I think Lin Dan is really good. He is fast and strong.

What badminton racket are you currently using?
I am using Li Ning N-90 2.

What string tension do you use for professional tournaments?
32 lbs. This amount of string tension is recommended only for professional players.

What do you think is the most difficult badminton skill to master?
Good technique is very important in badminton. For example, Taufik has good footwork and handwork, and backhand.

Power is less important compared to good footwork and handwork (badminton strokes).

Even fitness is less important than good handwork. When you get tired
in between badminton games, you will still be able to perform quality
shots and make the shuttle difficult for your opponent.

What do you think is the most important skills for beginners to learn first?
Basic footwork is very important. If you can’t reach the shuttle, there will be no point even if you can perform good badminton strokes.

Besides, every basic badminton skill is important to master first.

What is the most memorable moment in your badminton career?
I have 2 of them. In 2004, I ended up fourth in the Olympic Games. The
other one will be the 2007 Singapore Open, where I defeated Lin Dan in
the finals and he was ranked world no.1 at that time.

What else are you looking to achieve in badminton?
I’m currently looking at winning the Olympic Games in 2012.

At what age do you plan to retire?
After the 2012 Olympic Games. However, I will need to keep my body fit
now until the Olympic Games because my fitness level is not high.

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