Rankings shift, and injuries interrupt momentum, yet expectations from fans and the federation rarely fade. But if a certified winner believes in someone, that little bit of confidence boost goes a long way, which is the case for Lee Zii Jia.

Former Malaysian All England Open winner Hafiz Hashim has expressed his strong support for fellow Malaysian Lee Zii Jia.

He insists that the Malaysian superstar still has a lot to give to the game and will be a valuable asset for the contingent ahead of preparations for several important international tournaments.

"His experience can still make a big impact for the national team,” Hashim said while discussing Lee’s current situation.“Even though he is dealing with injuries and his ranking is no longer among the best, his presence still carries value,” he said.

Lee Zii Jia, now 28, has been going through a tough few months recently. Injuries like a severe, recurring back injury and a 2024 right ankle ligament injury have plagued his schedule.

As a result, he has failed to maintain his consistency and keep up with his play that once placed him among the top stars in the world.

His ranking has also slipped way down the barrel. That shift has begun to produce murmurs among doubters and netizens about his ability to return to peak form.

Hashim Hafiz also pointed at Lee Zii Jia's unmatchable aura on the court.

“When he steps onto the court, there is still an aura,” Hashim explained. “That experience is something younger players can learn from," he said, while expressing strong belief in the star.

Belief Remains in Lee Zii Jia's Ability to Rebuild

Beyond just experience, Hashim also pointed out that Lee's intelligence on court could help him go a long way.

His smart positioning, placement, and, in general, game sense that once made him one of the most dangerous players in the world could also help him rebuild his career.

Hashim thinks that careful career management should be the current focus. Lee may be able to progressively regain better form if he manages his injuries, selects the appropriate competitions, and keeps his confidence.

"It would actually be good if Lee Zii Jia was taken as the third singles player. His status can strengthen the Malaysian team, but because he has just recovered from an injury, he does have weaknesses.

But his presence still gives an advantage due to his enthusiasm and expertise, which are much needed," Hashim said on Nadi Weekend.

The former All England champion also stressed that many elite athletes go through challenging times before reaching their peak again.

Now, Lee Zii Jia's primary challenge is to get through that period.

Injuries may have slowed his progress and caused his ranking to decline. However, according to Hashim, Lee still possesses the traits that once made him one of the most dangerous men's singles players in the world.

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Written by

Chitrak Mukherjee

Edited by

Kaamna Dwivedi