KUALA LUMPUR: Two-time former world junior badminton champion Goh Jin Wei is crying for help.
The 23-year-old, who suffered a tearful-first round exit at the Malaysia Masters in Bukit Jalil today, hopes to be considered for the Road to Gold (RTG) programme.
Jin Wei, who was a far cry from her best, lost 21-17, 17-21, 21-15 to Germany's Yvonne Li.
"I wish I could have taken better care of my body and condition," lamented an emotional Jin Wei who was part of the Malaysian Sudirman Cup squad that reached the semi-finals last week.
"For the Sudirman Cup, I had access to all the NSI (National Sports Institute) facilities for a week. That helped a lot.
"However, once back here, I don't have access to it, and have to seek private treatment.
"If I had the support of the RTG programme, it would help a lot," she said.
To be part of the RTG programme, an athlete must fulfil one of the two criteria: be an Olympic medallist, or in the world's top 10.
Though world No 29 Jin Wei is the highest ranked Malaysian women's singles player, she does not meet any of the RTG programme requirements.
The Penang-born hinted that she may skip the Thailand Open next week to focus on her recovery. "I don't know if I will be going, given my current condition," she said.
Jin Wei underwent colectomy surgery in 2019, but since then, she has struggled with her form.
Subsequently, Jin Wei announced her retirement from badminton in 2021 before changing her mind and turning professional.