In the world of badminton, where shuttlecocks fly at lightning speed and split-second decisions make or break champions, two names are quietly carving their place—Zainal and Zulkifli Zainuddin. Born into a modest Malaysian household where badminton was more a way of life than a weekend hobby, these brothers have grown into pillars of the sport. But what makes their story remarkable is not just their talent, but the stark contrast in their paths.
Zainal Zainuddin commands the court from the players’ side as a rising doubles star, while Zulkifli Zainuddin sits courtside, clipboard in hand, donning the coach’s jacket with pride and responsibility. One brother smashes and dives; the other strategizes and shouts encouragement. Though separated by their roles, the Zainuddin brothers are united by one unwavering goal—to bring glory to Malaysian badminton and raise the sport to greater heights.
This article dives deep into the lives of Zainal and Zulkifli, their shared childhood, divergent careers, their mutual respect, and how their parallel journeys intertwine in pursuit of a single dream.
Humble Beginnings in Johor Bahru
Zainal and Zulkifli grew up in Johor Bahru, a bustling city where courts were sometimes little more than faded cement slabs and a net strung between lamp posts. Their father, a secondary school PE teacher, introduced them to badminton at a young age. He didn’t have much money, but he had an unwavering belief in the discipline and structure that badminton instilled.
“We didn’t have fancy rackets,” recalls Zainal. “Sometimes we had to share one. But we played every day—before school, after school, and even when it rained.”
From the outset, it was clear that both brothers had a flair for the game. But while Zainal thrived in the speed and intensity of rallies, Zulkifli showed a keener interest in observing patterns and correcting techniques—not just his own, but others’. “I would always tell Zainal, ‘Your footwork’s off on the backhand side,’” Zulkifli jokes. “Even when I was 12, I liked helping others fix their mistakes more than just beating them.”
This natural division would lay the foundation for their contrasting but complementary badminton careers.
Zainal’s Rise The Player
Zainal Zainuddin, now 25, is among Malaysia’s most promising doubles specialists. Having partnered with different players through the national junior and senior ranks, he has earned a reputation for his lightning reflexes and calm under pressure. Though he hasn’t yet cracked the top 10 in world rankings, his performances on the BWF World Tour have caught the attention of fans and selectors alike.
His breakthrough came in 2023 at the Indonesia Masters Super 100, where he and partner Amirul Hadi stunned the fifth seeds in a tense three-game thriller. “That match changed my career,” Zainal says. “People started to believe in us. But more importantly, I started believing in myself.”
Zainal attributes much of his success not just to hard work, but to his brother’s early guidance. “Zul was never officially my coach, but he trained with me more than anyone else. He knew my habits, my weak points. He still gives me advice after every match I play.”
Despite his own achievements, Zainal remains grounded. He views his career as part of a larger mission—representing Malaysia on the world stage and contributing to the country’s rich badminton legacy.
Zulkifli’s Path The Coach
While Zainal took the athlete’s road, Zulkifli—three years his senior—chose the path of pedagogy. After completing his studies in Sports Science at Universiti Malaya, he pursued coaching certifications with the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM). Known for his sharp eye and calm demeanor, he quickly rose through the ranks, eventually landing a role as assistant coach with the national junior team.
“Coaching was always what I wanted,” says Zulkifli. “I get immense satisfaction seeing players grow, overcome mental blocks, and improve day by day.”
Zulkifli is known among his peers as a ‘player’s coach’—someone who earns respect not through authority, but through empathy and insight. He’s been instrumental in grooming several national junior champions, and in 2024, he was promoted to the national doubles coaching staff—a role that, incidentally, brings him into close proximity with his younger brother.
“It’s funny,” Zulkifli smiles. “Sometimes I’m on one bench coaching a pair, and Zainal is on the opposite court. I cheer my players, but I can’t help glancing over to check how he’s doing.”
Sibling Rivalry or Shared Legacy
You’d expect that two competitive brothers in the same sport might foster some rivalry. But with the Zainuddins, it’s different. Their bond, tempered by years of backyard matches and late-night strategy talks, is one of mutual admiration and shared responsibility.
“We support each other unconditionally,” Zainal explains. “Even if his players are up against me, I know Zul’s proud when I play well. Likewise, I’m proud when his kids win tournaments.”
That said, there have been moments of internal conflict. “I remember one tournament where my pair had to play against Zainal and his partner in the semifinals,” Zulkifli recalls. “I felt torn. Of course, I wanted my players to win—but it hurt seeing my brother on the losing end.”
They eventually agreed on a simple rule: once the shuttle’s in play, they’re professionals first, brothers second. “We shake hands before and after. That’s it,” Zainal says. “No hard feelings.”
Their shared dream—seeing Malaysian badminton thrive—is larger than individual wins or losses. Whether through smashes or strategy, both brothers are contributing to a national mission.
The Malaysian Badminton Dream
Malaysia’s history with badminton is storied. From legends like Lee Chong Wei to doubles greats like Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong, the nation has always punched above its weight in the global arena. Yet in recent years, the challenge of maintaining that supremacy has grown, with new powerhouses like India, Japan, and Thailand emerging.
For the Zainuddin brothers, the mission is clear: contribute in whatever way possible to return Malaysia to consistent podium finishes.
“Malaysia has the talent,” Zulkifli insists. “What we need is long-term planning, better integration of science in training, and stronger mental conditioning. These are things I focus on every day.”
Zainal echoes that sentiment. “We’re no longer underdogs. People expect us to deliver. That’s pressure, but also motivation.”
The brothers often engage in discussions late at night—debating training methods, upcoming tournaments, and ways to nurture the next generation. It’s their own private think-tank for Malaysian badminton, one that bridges both ends of the court.
Setbacks and Sacrifices
Like every athlete and coach, the Zainuddin brothers have faced their share of setbacks.
In 2022, Zainal tore a ligament in his right ankle just before the Malaysian Open. It was a devastating blow that sidelined him for five months. The first person at his bedside? Zulkifli.
“He brought me a whiteboard and markers,” Zainal laughs. “Said, ‘Since you can’t train, let’s work on your tactical awareness.’”
Meanwhile, Zulkifli once had to deal with allegations of favoritism when one of his players—coincidentally a close friend of Zainal—was promoted to the national team. “It was a tough period,” he admits. “I had to maintain transparency and professionalism at all times.”
Despite the challenges, the brothers never let adversity define them. They see every obstacle as part of the journey—lessons that will one day benefit the next batch of players and coaches under their guidance.
Also Read:
