YOU CAN’T BREAK CHONG WEI’S STRIDE, SAYS MISBUN
No stopping Lee once he sets his mind on something, says Misbun
KUALA LUMPUR: An extraordinary player for his generation.
The national men’s singles badminton squad are inspired by Lee Chong Wei after his successful fight against cancer and his attempts to fight his way back to the court.
Men’s singles head coach Datuk Misbun Sidek said that once Chong Wei has set his mind on something, there is no stopping him till he reaches his goal.
“I have said it before – when something has been planted inside of him, he will continue to fight for it until the end,” said Misbun.
“And I believe that the happiness he feels on the court is the only thing that can cure whatever pain he has to face.”
He added that Chong Wei has all the experience and knowledge to get back into shape, and the only thing the team can do now is to help him when needed and to be patient with him.
“As a senior with vast experience, he knows how to make a comeback and regain his condition, be it to get to intermediate level or advanced.
“As coaches we just have to be patient in our demand of him and preparing the modules for him.”
When asked if he could find his best form before the cancer, Misbun replied that Chong Wei’s heart is now stronger than before, after such a challenging phase.
“Many in his condition would be sad and want to give up, but for him he is an extraordinary player for his generation and I wouldn’t be surprised if he regains his form.”
Chong Wei’s national teammates are also inspired by his unbreakable spirit.
Taiwan Open champion Lee Zii Jia said he has the utmost respect for his senior who made a brave decision to return.
“It’s not easy to make such a decision because it could be a bit risky and dangerous – so I respect his mental strength and I’m ready to welcome him back,” said Zii Jia.
“And as players we have to learn from his fiery spirit to make a comeback, even after so many problems.”
Soong Joo Ven, who finished runner-up in the Hyderabad Open in September, said that they have to learn from Chong Wei’s example.
“This is very good news for Malaysia because he is a hero for our country and as his teammate, I’m looking forward to his return.
“If he can come back from cancer, he has proven that as players, as long as we don’t give up, anything is possible.”