KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian badminton has been hit by the sudden news that Lee Chong Wei will not only miss next week’s World Championships in Nanjing, China, but he is also doubtful for next month’s Indonesia Asian Games.
It is learnt that Chong Wei, 36, is ill, and will need a complete rest.
Following doctor's advice, Chong Wei will have to undergo treatment, and will not be able to train at all.
The BA of Malaysia (BAM) are expected to hold a press conference in a couple of days on Chong Wei’s situation.
Chong Wei's absence from both the World Championships and Asian Games will be a big blow to Malaysia.
The former World No 1 and three-time Olympic silver medallist is still considered to be Malaysia’s best bet to win gold at the World Championships and Asian Games.
However, 17 years of battling for the country has taken its toll on Chong Wei.
On Monday, NSTP Sport reported that Chong Wei will likely miss the World Championships. when he did not show up for training for the whole of last week.
It is learnt that Chong Wei fell sick since returning from the Indonesia Open. He crashed out in the semi-finals after going down to Japanese ace Kento Momota on July 7.
A week before that, Chong Wei won his 12th Malaysia Open crown, when he defeated Momota in the final at the Axiata Arena.