Zii Jia ready to shine at Malaysia Masters

Zii Jia has set his sights on reaching the main draw of the Malaysia Masters, which starts tomorrow, after a disappointing quarter-final exit in the Thailand Masters.

The 21-year-old men’s singles shuttler, however, will have to work hard if he hopes to achieve his goal.

The World No 42 hopes to regain the similar form that saw him end last year on a strong note.

When met at the Axiata Arena today, Zii Jia said: “I am slightly disappointed with my quarter-final exit at the Thailand Masters but it was my fault.

“It’s okay, there is no point in dwelling in that defeat because I’ve learned my lesson already.”

He lost 21-11, 21-19 to Frenchman Brice Leverdez in Bangkok.

Zii Jia, who is the only BA of Malaysia (BAM) player in the men’s singles event, will open his qualifying campaign against China’s Zhou Zeqi, and will face either Thailand’s Sitthikom Thammasin or China’s Zhao Junpeng in the next round for a main draw spot.

The Kedah-born, who won the Macau Open title and reached the Korea Masters final last season, believes he is in great condition this year, despite his busy schedule with the SS Purple League.

“It was a little hectic at the start, but I’m slowly getting the hang of it.

“I know how to juggle my time, so it’s not really a problem. In fact, I’ve had enough rest.”

Joining Zii Jia in the men’s singles event at the Malaysia Masters are independent shuttlers Liew Daren and Chong Wei Feng.