Chong Wei recalls defying doctor for epic Lin Dan final
KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has revealed a doctor had told him not to compete at the 2012 London Olympics because of an ankle injury,
Chong Wei, a three-time Olympic silver medallist, recounted how a doctor had once warned him against competing in the 2012 London Olympics due to an ankle injury. The injury, sustained during the Thomas Cup quarter-final against Denmark, resulted in torn ligaments and tendons. When Chong Wei returned home, a doctor informed him that he could not participate in the Olympics.
Overwhelmed with fear, he cried, realizing the gravity of his situation. This experience marked his toughest career challenge, as the fear of injury loomed large over him. Despite undergoing intensive rehabilitation and stem cell treatment, Chong Wei raced against time to secure his place in the men's singles final against Lin Dan.
He even received additional treatment during the centralised training stint at the University of Bath before the Olympics. Competing in pain, Chong Wei put forth his best effort but ultimately lost the final 15-21, 21-10, 21-19 to Lin Dan. Despite the loss, the 2012 Games remain a remarkable achievement for Chong Wei, as he narrowly missed Malaysia's first Olympic gold.
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.