Source:REUTERS/VCG
[Saba Sports News] Recently, the team of Malaysian badminton star Lee Zii Jia issued a statement announcing that he will undergo long-term rehabilitation for persistent lower back pain and will miss the Denmark Open, French Open, and Hylo Open in October. This is another injury-related withdrawal for Lee Zii Jia, following a nearly six-month hiatus due to a torn ligament in his right ankle! Lee Zii Jia’s team revealed that if his recovery goes smoothly, he might attempt a comeback next month. If he cannot recover in time, his season will end early. In March of this year, Lee Zii Jia returned at the All England Open but suffered a first-round exit, indicating he has not yet returned to his best form. After a five-month rehabilitation period, he admitted to facing immense physical and mental pressure. The time away from the court left him feeling uncertain about the future at one point. The severe right ankle injury once made him consider retirement and even led to mild depression. Upon his return at the World Championships in August and subsequent tournaments in Hong Kong, China, and the China Masters, Lee Zii Jia suffered three consecutive first-round exits. More importantly, as he ages, Lee Zii Jia’s playing style needs to change. He is no longer pursuing the aggressive, power-based game of the past but hopes to use technique to compensate for the decline in explosive power. This undoubtedly presents a significant test of his technical skills and match experience. The world of badminton may no longer see the reckless, powerful young player. However, the version of him who has learned endurance through injury, found peace in the art of the game, and faces the challenges of transformation head-on might be closer to the essence of badminton. We wish Lee Zii Jia a speedy recovery and a return to the court!