KUALA LUMPUR: Despite serving a long-term ban, Japan's Kenichi Tago seems to be enjoying life here in Malaysia.
Apart from being a permanent fixture with the Petaling Badminton Club in the Purple League, the 29-year-old, who was ban indefinitely by the Japan BA (JBA) for illegal gambling, is currently providing private coaching services.
Tago has also been sparring with the national women's singles shuttlers at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara over the past two weeks after being invited by coach Tey Seu Bock.
Just two years ago, Tago and his former junior teammate Kento Momota, were punished by JBA for visiting illegal casinos. Gambling is a very serious crime in Japan.
Momota, however, was let off the hook last year, and the 24-year-old wasted no time in regaining his people's trust when he bagged the World Championships title in style last month.
After winning 10 titles from 13 final appearance since his return, Momota is expected to assume the World No 1 spot on Thursday.
As that is not the case for Tago, the former Thomas Cup winner decided to ply his trade in a foreign land.
"I am grateful to a lot of people here in Malaysia. They were the ones who stood by me, that is why I am here. I like it," said Tago, who almost sounds Malaysian, with his 'lahs' and 'ahs'.
"If I had stayed in Japan after the whole scandal, it would have been very difficult for me to even find a job. I am currently enjoying myself here as I still get to play badminton.
"I basically do everything and anything I can, not just sparring and not just coaching," added Tago.
On the impressive rise of Momota, Tago said: "Since he was my junior, I knew he was special. Even before the ban, he was destined for greatness.
"We have not kept in touch since the ban, and I think that is best for him. I wish only the best for him."
Tago admitted he regretted his actions then, but there is nothing he can do about it now.
The Japanese former No 1 blew ¥10million (about RM366,000) from 60 visits to illegal casinos.
When asked about his thoughts on Lee Chong Wei, who is suffering from nose cancer, Tago added: "I have a lot of respect for the Malaysian ace. Just like Momota was my junior, I see myself as a junior to Chong Wei.
"Out of 19 meetings, I have only beaten him twice. I don't want to say much and I hope the general public will also give him that respect to allow him to have his space.
"Being motivated to return to court is good, but I believe getting better should be his No 1 priority."