That’s too harsh
Chong Wei defends Momota and hopes he will bounce back
MALAYSIAN No. 1 Lee Chong Wei has jumped to the defence of Kento Momota, who has been stripped of the right to compete in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics in August.
The 21-year-old Momota, who rose to a career high No. 2 in the world, has admitted to gambling at an illegal casino in Tokyo last year with former world No. 3 Kenichi Tago.
Gambling is a criminal offence in Japan and the Japan Badminton Association, as well as Momota’s corporate team NTT East, are punishing him by banning him from competing in Rio.
Momota, who has won four Superseries titles including the recent Indian Open, conceded a walkover in the second round of the Celcom Axiata Malaysian Open and has flown home to assist in investigations.
The 33-year-old Chong Wei, who served an eight-month suspension for a doping violation, believes that Momota will bounce back.
Chong Wei described the incident as “a lesson” for Momota and other aspiring junior shuttlers.
“When I first heard the news, I was shocked because it was very unexpected,” said Chong Wei.
“I also know that the Japan BA have made a decision not to allow Momota to compete in the Olympics. To me, I think it’s a disciplinary problem and it’s something that shouldn’t have happened.
“But Momota is still young and was maybe under bad influence ... and wasn’t aware that what he did was not right.
“I certainly hope this incident will make him come back stronger. He is a very skilful player and even reached No. 2 in the world ranking.
“Besides, I also hope that this is a lesson for all young athletes ... especially our Malaysian juniors. They need to be mindful of the things they do and carry themselves well.”
According to news reports from Japan broadcaster NHK, the Japan Olympic Council will meet on Sunday to finalise a decision on Momota.
The Japan BA have issued a gag order on their coaches at the Malaysian Open and head coach Park Joo-bong was not available for comments.
This latest incident is also a blow to Japan’s bid to defend their Thomas Cup title in Kunshan, China, from May 15-22.