Kuala Lumpur: Lee Chong Wei’s absence at the 2018 Asian Games presents unique challenges to the young Malaysian players including Lee Zii Jia, Leong Jun Hao and Soong Joo Ven.
Playing in his first ever Asian Games, World No. 53 Lee Zii Jia remained collected when talking to reporters at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2) before departing to Jakarta on Thursday.
“I do not want to think too much about it because it’s my first appearance in the Asian Games and I’ve been preparing for the tournament after the 2018 Singapore Open.”
“So far everything has gone well with my preparation, and I hope to play my best in Jakarta.”
“I believe every athlete should stay focus and do their best for Malaysia in the Asian Games.”
However, last year’s Asian youth champion Leong Jun Hao admitted he started to feel the pressure especially he could play a decisive role in team event against Japan this Sunday.
“Of course, I can feel the pressure, but I am going to give all I have if the coach decided to play me in the team event.”
“For now, our preparations have been good, and I am looking forward for getting good results,” added Leong.
As for World No. 27 Daren Liew, this would be his second Asian Games outing. He played in the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games team event, but was dropped from the 2014 Incheon Asian Games due to subpar performance at the 2014 Thomas Cup final.
