Mulyo Handoyo on His Legendary Coaching Career
Mulyo Handoyo laughed heartily when asked about his former protege, Taufik Hidayat. “It’s been so long, yet people still ask about him,” said the Indonesian coaching legend, reflecting on their remarkable partnership.
Handoyo guided Hidayat to iconic victories, including the 2004 Athens Olympics gold and the 2005 World Championships crown. Under his mentorship, Hidayat also claimed three additional World Championships medals, two Asian Games golds, and three Asian Championships titles, solidifying his status as one of badminton’s greatest players.
A Legacy Beyond Taufik Hidayat
While Hidayat’s success elevated Handoyo’s reputation, it also established him as a sought-after coach worldwide. “Taufik is a big man now, the deputy minister for sports in Indonesia,” Handoyo shared proudly.
After Hidayat retired, Handoyo coached in several top badminton nations, including a stint in India from 2017-2018. During this time, he trained prominent players like Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, B Sai Praneeth, and Kidambi Srikanth.
Indian Achievements and Future Prospects
Under Handoyo’s guidance, Srikanth reached five Superseries finals, winning four, and became the world’s No. 1 ranked player—the third Indian to achieve this milestone after Prakash Padukone and Saina Nehwal. However, as Srikanth and HS Prannoy approach the twilight of their careers, Handoyo sees hope in the next generation.
“Lakshya Sen and Priyanshu Rajawat are young, performing well, and represent the future of Indian badminton,” he observed. “There are many emerging talents in India, but I can’t name them all.”
Handoyo also played a key role in Sindhu’s early success, helping her secure multiple BWF World Tour titles and a silver medal at the 2017 World Championships.
Sindhu’s Future in Focus
Now 29, Sindhu’s potential remains significant, according to Handoyo. “She can still play for four more years if she’s motivated. Her physical condition is key, but I believe she can compete at the top level for one or two more years,” he remarked.
On Irwansyah Adi Pratama, Sindhu’s new coach, Handoyo expressed confidence. “Every coach has their style. If Sindhu is motivated, Irwansyah can help her return to the top.”
A Return to Indonesia
Handoyo is currently Indonesia’s men’s singles head coach, prioritizing time with his family in Solo, Central Java. His decision to decline an offer from the Badminton Association of India (BAI) to lead the National Centre of Excellence in Guwahati reflects this commitment.
“My family is my priority. India is far, but being in Singapore or Malaysia keeps me close to home,” Handoyo explained.
Looking Ahead
With his wealth of experience and dedication, Handoyo continues to shape the future of badminton, mentoring the next generation of Indonesian players while celebrating the legacy of his iconic partnership with Taufik Hidayat.
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