Zi Hong channels idol Chong Wei in Lee Chong Wei Cup victory
KUALA LUMPUR: Up-and-coming shuttler Chiam Zi Hong was only seven when Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei retired, but the Malaysian badminton great still found a way to become his idol.
Kuala Lumpur: Chiam Zi Hong, a budding Malaysian badminton player, has found inspiration in former world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei, despite never having watched the legend compete at his peak. At just 14, Zi Hong draws inspiration from Chong Wei's patience, precision and ability to control rallies before striking. The Johor native secured his spot in the Lee Chong Wei Cup Grand Finals, named after his childhood idol, after clinching a hard-fought Under-15 match against Perak's William Phoon at Juara Stadium in Bukit Kiara.
Zi Hong, who has already claimed titles in the Junior Elite Tour and YONEX-SINGHA-BAT-BTY Championships, is determined to gain more experience by playing against stronger opponents at the Grand Finals. He aspires to represent Malaysia and potentially compete in the Olympics or World Championships. The tournament also attracted young talents like Ellis Ngi, who reached the Grand Finals after defeating Ummi Athirah Mohd Khairul Anuar.
Both players expressed their aspirations to represent Malaysia and win international titles, with Ellis emphasizing the need to improve further before aiming for the World Junior Championships.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
