Zii Jia set to delay comeback to ensure a smashing return
Malaysia men's singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia in action against Hong Kong's Angus Ng Ka Long during the semi-final match of Malaysian Masters at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Saturday. — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Men's singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia remains unsure of when he will be returning to the court, and rushing to make a comeback at the US Open next month might be a risk he isn't willing to take.
World No. 10 Zii Jia has been nursing a right ankle ligament injury since March, and his earlier aim to be back competing at the US Open in Iowa from June 24-29 would have to be put on hold.
The 27-year-old said he isn't rushing to recover and now hopes to make his return in July either at the Japan Open from July 15-20, or the China Open from July 22-27.
'Currently I'm just moving forward with my recovery, and I think the US Open might be a bit of a rush,' he said when met after the National Sports Awards at the Dorsett Grand Subang yesterday.
'So my comeback is delayed, but hopefully by the time the Japan and China Open comes around, I'll be fully prepared to be back competing.''
Having only competed at the Orleans Masters and All-England this year, Zii Jia said although his injury isn't too serious, he's treading carefully so as to not further aggravate things.
'I want to deal with this carefully. I've learned my lesson from the All-England. I had rushed to be back and this time I'm taking my time,' he said.
Zii Jia had exited the All-England in the first round after losing to Hong Kong's Angus Ng Ka Long, stating that he felt pain in the first game but decided to push through.
The Paris Olympics bronze medallist was nominated for the National Sportsman of the Year award, but it was won by men's doubles pair Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik, who defended their bronze medal in Paris.
Nevertheless, Zii Jia was happy to have been nominated for the award for the first time.
'I'm proud to have been nominated for it. And although I didn't get it, it shows progress for me and serves as motivation.
'Hopefully one day I will win.
'To Aaron and Wooi Yik, don't forget to treat me to some food later,' said Zii Jia to his fellow shuttlers.
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