Turning the corner
Lee gives thumbs-up as he highlights significant change in M'sian players' mindset
PETALING JAYA: Badminton legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei believes the national team are on the right track based on their encouraging performance in the first half of the year.
While there have been both highs and lows, Chong Wei feels the players have taken valuable lessons from every challenge and their growth is starting to show.
One of the most promising signs, he said, is that Malaysian shuttlers are no longer content with just making up the numbers at major tournaments.
Instead, they are stepping up as genuine contenders, with several titles already under their belt.
'We're halfway through 2025, and I'm really proud of the spirit shown by our national team,' said Chong Wei in a social media post.
'The first six months brought a mix of big-stage breakthroughs, hard-fought lessons and steady progress and it all points to Malaysian badminton heading in the right direction.
'This year, our players have risen to the occasion at major tournaments, challenging top-ranked opponents and reaching the later stages of some of the sport's biggest events. 'It's clear they're putting in the hard work, fine-tuning their strategies and proving that Malaysia is not just here to participate, but to compete at the highest level.
The men's doubles pairs have led the way this year, with world No. 2 Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik winning three titles, the Asian Championships, Thailand Open and Singapore Open.
World No. 7 Man Wei Chong-Tee Kai Wun have also impressed with victories at the Indonesian Masters and Malaysian Masters.
Independent duo Goh Sze Fei-Nur Izzuddin Rumsani, now ranked world No. 1, added to the success by clinching the Indian Open crown.
In the women's doubles, Pearly Tan-M. Thinaah continued to shine with their title win at the Thailand Open and runner-up finishes at both the Indonesian Open and Masters.
Looking ahead to the second half of the season, Chong Wei hopes the players will maintain their momentum and called on Malaysians to continue showing their support.
'To all fans, keep cheering, whether we win or lose. Your belief makes all the difference. Let's stand united behind the team as they gear up for the next half of the season. Together, let's show the world that Malaysia Boleh!' he added.
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