Chou Tien-chen
It's an unorthodox approach, but Taiwan's Chou Tien-chen is hoping his decision to go without a coach will help him win badminton gold at the Tokyo Olympics.
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The world number four has flourished since parting ways with a full-time coach in 2019, with his physiotherapist Victoria Kao filling the role of mentor, cheerleader and critic.
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With Kao in his corner, Chou won his first Super 1000 title at the 2019 Indonesia Open, and lifted the Taipei Open trophy for a record third time.
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Now Chou, who reached the last eight at Rio 2016, has set his sights on winning Taiwan's first Olympic badminton medal.
"Taiwan's strength has increased a lot, and there is a very good chance of winning," Chou, 31, told AFP in an interview.
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"I've grown and improved a lot since 2016," he added. "I feel I have the chance to win a medal, even the gold medal."
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Chou will be heading to Tokyo alongside women's world number one Tai Tzu-ying and doubles duo Lee Yang and Wang Chi-lin, who are ranked three globally.
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Despite a strong badminton pedigree, Taiwan is yet to bring home an Olympic medal. But the team will arrive in Tokyo at something of an advantage.
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