Butet Is Still Curious To Win The Indonesia Open With Tontowi

Liliyana Natsir dan Berry Anggriawan Berfoto Bersama Maskot BCA Indonesia Open
Liliyana Natsir dan Berry Anggriawan Berfoto Bersama Maskot BCA Indonesia Open
Indonesia Open ‐ Created by RR | WTP

A mixed doubles specialist, Liliyana Natsir, admitted she had been longing for her first Indonesia Open title together with her partner, Tontowi Ahmad. The athlete who was born on September 9 1985 stated her wisht yesterday while attending BCA Indonesia Open 2017 press conference at Hotel Indonesia, Monday (22/5/2017).

Since partnered with Tontowi, Liliyana has never won Indonesia Open. She once won the title when she was partnered with Nova Widianto in mixed doubles in 2005 and with Vita Marissa in women's doubles in 2008 Indonesia Open.

"Tontowi and I have won All England thrice and become champions in other country. Yet we have never won Indonesia Open here at home. I am still curious," said Liliyana with a grin.

"This year, Indonesia Open will be held at JCC. Probably, Tontowi had no luck in Senayan. Hopefully this time, we grab a title he at the JCC, Amen," Liliyana added.

Actually, Liliyana and Tontowi are not expected to carry specific targets at this year's Indonesia Open. Badminton Association of Indonesia board sets one target in men's doubles. However, former Indonesian badminton player who is now one of the national men's doubles coaches, Nova Widianto, explained that the mixed doubles will rely on Praveen Jordan/Debby Susanto.

"Although no targets set from the board, our mixed doubles aim the title. We have Tontowi and Liliyana, it is impossible we only set semifinal as our target," Nova said.

“Perhaps the expectation is more relying on Praveen Jordan/Debby Susanto. Liliyana is aging and she has been playing since I was still a player," said Nova.

The last Indonesian mixed doubles who won Indonesia Open were Nova/Liliyana in 2005 in which Nova/Liliyana was able to stun their compatriot.