In the fast-paced world of badminton, where grit meets grace, Kisona Selvaduray has emerged as a beacon of inspiration. Born on October 1, 1998, in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Kisona’s journey from a budding talent to an internationally recognized badminton player is a testament to her unwavering determination, unyielding spirit, and love for the sport.
Kisona Selvaduray: Early Life and Passion for Badminton
The youngest of four siblings, Kisona’s introduction to badminton was rooted in family tradition. Encouraged by her parents and inspired by their passion for the game, she picked up her first racket at a tender age. However, it was her historic win at the 2009 Malaysia Schools Sports Council (MSSM) badminton tournament that cemented her potential. At just ten years old, she became the youngest-ever champion in the tournament’s history, a feat that signaled the arrival of a future star.
Her educational journey at SJK (C) Yuk Hwa in Kuala Klawang also played a pivotal role in her development. Her fluency in Tamil, Bahasa Malaysia, English, and Mandarin showcases her versatility both on and off the court, reflecting her ability to navigate diverse environments with ease.
Rising Through the Ranks
Kisona’s journey to prominence began with her bronze medal at the 2013 Asian Youth Games, where she triumphed over her compatriot, Ho Yen Mei. Her first senior international title came at the 2017 Indonesia International Series, a victory that set the stage for subsequent successes. The following years saw her dominate at the Malaysia International Series (2017 and 2018), earning back-to-back titles that solidified her as one of Malaysia’s top badminton talents.
Her crowning achievement came at the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, where she claimed the coveted gold medal in women’s singles. This victory not only brought her national recognition but also underscored her ability to perform under immense pressure.
Overcoming Adversity: The ACL Injury
Kisona Selvaduray’s rise was not without setbacks. In 2014, at the World Junior Championships, she suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, along with medial collateral ligament (MCL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries. These injuries threatened to derail her career. However, her resolve and belief in herself propelled her through a grueling recovery process.
Despite the odds, Kisona Selvaduray returned stronger, demonstrating that resilience and hard work could overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her comeback victories, including the 2021 Spanish International title, stand as a testament to her enduring spirit.
Transitioning to Professional Badminton
In December 2022, Kisona Selvaduray announced her decision to leave the national setup to focus on recovery and professional growth. Training under coaches Mohd Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohamad Arif Abdul Latif at the Sendayan Badminton Club, she continued to excel. By 2024, she had joined the Ampang Jaya Badminton Club, training under Ho Khek Mong, marking a new chapter in her illustrious career.
This shift to professional badminton has allowed her to further refine her game and inspire a new generation of players, proving that perseverance can lead to reinvention and renewed success.
Achievements and Accolades
Kisona Selvaduray’s list of accolades is a reflection of her dedication and skill:
- 2013 Asian Youth Games: Bronze Medalist
- 2017 Indonesia International Series: Champion
- 2017 & 2018 Malaysia International Series: Back-to-Back Champion
- 2019 Greece and Sydney International Series: Winner
- 2019 SEA Games: Women’s Singles Gold Medalist
- 2021 Spanish International Challenge: Champion
In 2024, she was honored with the Malaysian Indian Badminton Association (MIBA) High-Performance Player Achievement Platinum Award, recognizing her contributions to Malaysian badminton and her role as a role model for aspiring athletes.
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