This is because the 26-year-old Japanese hopes to break his duck on Malaysian soil after two failed attempts last year.
Last year, Momota crashed out in the opening round of the Malaysia Masters after going down to compatriot Kenta Nishimoto.“Towards the end of last year, it was really hectic for me, especially after the BWF World Tour Finals and the Japanese National Championships. “However, I am not skipping the Malaysia Masters because it’s important for me that I do not lose the tournament feeling,” said Momota, who yesterday disposed of India’s P. Kashyap 21-17, 21-16 in the opening round at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil.