Source:REUTERS/VCG
[Saba Sports News] This week, the schedule for the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand will commence, and Malaysia has dispatched its strongest lineup to face the competition. The team will depart from Malaysia on Friday. Just before their departure, Malaysian badminton legend Lee Chong Wei sent his blessings to the national team, urging the young players to remember the responsibility of representing Malaysia. He emphasized that they will be facing strong teams from Indonesia, Thailand, and other nations in this Southeast Asian Games, and they must demonstrate their competitive spirit.The Badminton Association of Malaysia has long-term goals, including regaining the Thomas Cup in 2026 and competing for gold at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Lee Chong Wei’s encouragement connects the Southeast Asian Games with these long-term objectives. As the premier team event for men’s badminton, the Thomas Cup requires players to work cooperatively and possess strong pressure resilience. Competing against strong teams like Indonesia and Thailand in the Southeast Asian Games provides an excellent opportunity for these Thomas Cup candidates to gain experience. By sending out the best lineup, he hopes that players can accumulate experience through real competition, refine their teamwork, and lay the groundwork for future challenges for the Thomas Cup. This is a tangible push for Malaysia’s badminton revival plan.