Kuala Lumpur — Malaysian badminton legend Lee Chong Wei has emphasized that Lee Zii Jia should remain an important part of Malaysia’s plans for the 2026 Thomas Cup campaign in Horsens, Denmark. According to the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), the 27-year-old independent shuttler is still firmly on their radar as the team begins early preparations.
Lee Chong Wei, who now chairs BAM’s Performance Committee, shared that Lee Zii Jia is expected to be invited for a centralized training camp, together with several other professional players, as part of the buildup to the prestigious team event.
Injury-Hit 2025 Season for Lee Zii Jia
Lee Zii Jia ended his 2025 season earlier than planned due to persistent ankle injuries and back problems. The former All England champion only managed to compete in five tournaments this year, raising questions about his fitness and readiness.
Despite this, Lee Chong Wei made his stance clear:
“Zii Jia cannot be dismissed just like that. He still has a place in our Thomas Cup preparations,” he said after a meeting with the national coaching team at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM).
He added that BAM is still waiting for updates on Lee Zii Jia’s recovery and hopes the shuttler regains full fitness in time.
Early Planning for Denmark Training Camp
To strengthen Malaysia’s chances, BAM is exploring the possibility of a training stint in Denmark ahead of the Thomas Cup.
Singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen and doubles coaching director Rexy Mainaky are finalizing the details of the preparation program, which will involve both national and professional players.
Concerns Over Malaysia’s Men’s Singles Depth
Lee Chong Wei also acknowledged that Malaysia’s current men’s singles lineup is still struggling to find stability. Players Leong Jun Hao, Justin Hoh, Aidil Sholeh Ali Sadikin, and Eogene Ewe have shown flashes of promise but remain inconsistent.
Their performances at next week’s SEA Games in Thailand are expected to play a significant role in the final selection for the Thomas Cup squad.
“Our men’s singles department is fragile right now. We don’t yet know how Jun Hao, Justin, Aidil, and Eogene will perform at the SEA Games,” Lee Chong Wei said.
With six months left before the Thomas Cup, he hopes the coaching team can refine their progress and build a more resilient lineup.
Road to the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup
The Malaysian contingent will depart for Thailand this Friday for the SEA Games, which begin on Sunday. After the tournament, all focus will shift to preparing for both the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup in 2025.
