Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia Eyes China Collaboration Post-Injury

Malaysia’s badminton world lit up this week as Olympic bronze medalist Lee Zii Jia smashed through the silence on his recent ankle injury and future ambitions. In an exclusive chat with CGTN Sports Scene, the 27-year-old powerhouse revealed his gritty recovery journey and bold visions for cross-border sports teamwork.

‘It’s been a marathon, not a sprint,’ Lee admitted about his rehabilitation, comparing his comeback mindset to a Marvel superhero’s origin story. His eyes sparkled brighter when discussing China-Malaysia ties: ‘Imagine training exchanges or mixed-team tournaments—it’d be like Avengers: Infinity War for badminton fans!’

Lee’s optimism mirrors a growing trend of sports diplomacy in Asia. With Malaysia and the Chinese mainland already partnering in tech and trade, could shuttlecock diplomacy be next? Young professionals and sports junkies are buzzing: ‘This is how you unite Gen Z—through passion points,’ tweeted one fan.

As Lee gears up for his next tournament, his message is clear: Injuries may bench you, but grit and global teamwork rewrite the game.

Reference(s):

TALK SPORTS: Malaysian badminton star Lee discusses injury and future

cgtn.com