Malaysian badminton legend Lee Chong Wei contemplates exit as national team faces crisis

In the aftermath of a crushing 3-0 defeat to China in the Asia Team Championships final, former badminton world number one Lee Chong Wei expressed deep concerns about the future of Malaysian badminton. The Olympic medalist warned that unless “drastic” changes are implemented immediately, the sport in Malaysia is headed for a downward spiral.

The defeat against China, even without their strongest lineup, served as a wake-up call for Lee, who retired from professional badminton in 2019 after a storied career that included three Olympic silver medals and three world silver medals. Speaking to The Star newspaper, Lee emphasized the urgency for Malaysian badminton authorities to prioritize the promotion of younger players.

“I know the truth hurts, but I think Malaysian badminton will only go downhill from here if nothing is done,” Lee stated. Expressing his frustration, the 41-year-old icon admitted, “Right now I feel like giving up on Malaysian badminton.”

Lee pointed fingers at the lack of discipline and commitment among the current players, urging immediate intervention to address these issues. “We have to make some drastic changes,” he insisted.

“If not, we will be left behind, left far behind, and badminton will no longer be one of the top sports in this country. I really can’t bear to face that.”

The Asia Team Championships, which offered crucial ranking points for the upcoming Paris Olympics, unveiled the vulnerabilities in Malaysia’s badminton landscape. With the women’s team failing to progress beyond the quarter-finals and China’s dominance evident, Lee Chong Wei’s warnings come as a stark reminder of the pressing need for reform within the Malaysian badminton system.

As the nation grapples with the aftermath of this defeat, the fate of Malaysian badminton hangs in the balance, prompting questions about the necessary measures needed to revive and sustain the once-thriving sport in the country.