Reaching the top is something everyone strives for. But, many don’t consider what comes after. Do you continue striving for the next best thing? Can you defend your title? How long are you willing to maintain your status as ‘the best’?
As it turns out, national badminton player Lee Zii Jia (李梓嘉) may have chosen the next step in his career. Apparently, there a rumour that Zii Jia is considering going solo and leaving the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM)! Well, BAM recently released a statement to discuss that particular hearsay.
For Lee Zii Jia, 2021 has been a complete roller-coaster ride. From winning the All England championship in March to retiring from the BWF World Championships 2021 thanks to a blister, Zii Jia has been through a lot. The national player has proved his mettle time and time again, however, he seems to have hit a rut.
Some speculated that he is hoping a change will help him regain his rhythm. Others claim there’s a lucrative offer awaiting Zii Jia after he leaves the association. RM4 million has supposedly been offered to finance his journey as a professional player.
BAM’s Director of Coaching Wong Choong Hann was also vague when questioned about it. “There are always rumours. There are always (whispers) of players leaving and entering (BAM),” he said. “As long as it doesn’t come true, it’s hard to comment.” However, he reassured that they will continue training players under them, regardless of rumours.
It isn’t known where this particular rumour originated from, but it was serious enough for BAM to address it. Today (30th December), the association released a statement on their socials to address the issue. Fans will be overjoyed to know that the BAM is denying reports of Zii Jia moving away from the association.
BAM General Secretary, Dato’ Kenny Goh Chee Keong added that Zii Jia himself was unaware of the rumours. “His determination and vision remains the same as the leading national men’s singles of the country,” he reassured. “(Zii Jia) is 100 per cent focused on Paris 2024.”
The beloved national player hasn’t said anything about the issue. However, he may just be busy resting up and preparing for next year’s tournaments. Either way, we look forward to seeing Zii Jia give his all on the court again!
Sources: Facebook, Stadium Astro
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