Over the weekend, it was confirmed that world no. 1 Lee Chong Wei‘s B sample tested positive for banned substance dexamethasone. Dexamethasone, an anti-inflammatory drug, is a substance commonly used to aid an athlete’s rehabilitation process. Needless to say, the news shook the nation as Chong Wei has always been viewed as our hardworking national hero as well as an international badminton champ. For fans, the weekend sped past in a blur as it dawned upon them the kind of implications that it would have on the top shuttler.
Malaysia’s Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin stressed that the positive dope test was not akin to that of Ben Johnson (an Olympic sprinter who was found to be using steroids) or Lance Armstrong (cyclist who was found to have used EPO, steroids, and blood transfusions to boost his performances) as dexamethasone was a medical steroid used to aid athletes’ rehabilitation after injuries.
Chong Wei said he was appreciative of the many people standing by him. “I will not forget the encouraging words of my fans – here in Malaysia and abroad. I have received many comforting text messages. I want to thank each of them,” he added.
He has since updated his official Facebook page to thank his fans for having faith in him through this difficult time. He also included a link to an exclusive interview that he has recently done with his long time friend and Malaysian sports blogger, Satwant Singh Dhaliwal:
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Post by Lee Chong Wei 李宗伟.<>
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Stay strong, Chong Wei! This doesn’t change the fact that you’re our national hero. We’re right behind you.
Don’t forget, if you’d like to tweet your support for our Malaysian champ, you may do so via Twitter here.
