After Lee Zii Jia agreed to don the Malaysian jersey once more for the 2026 Thomas Cup campaign, focus has now shifted to strengthening team spirit within the national squad.
Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei, Chairman of the Performance Committee of the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), emphasised that teamwork will be a top priority this time, noting that team events require a different approach compared with individual competitions.
The Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medallist has agreed to join a 10-day national training camp in Denmark following the Badminton Asia Championships in China from 7 to 12 April.
“Team events and individual tournaments are very different. Zii Jia is used to moving independently, so this camp is designed to build team cohesion. He has agreed to participate in the 10-day camp in Denmark. That said, if he or any professional players wish to start training earlier at the Badminton Malaysia Academy (ABM), they are always welcome,” Chong Wei told BH Sukan.
Zii Jia confirmed in a statement that he is ready to support Malaysia at the Thomas Cup in Horsens, Denmark, from 24 April to 3 May without submitting any demands to BAM. Previously, the former All England champion had reportedly set several conditions before deciding to rejoin the national squad.
Chong Wei described Zii Jia’s return as a major boost for the team, particularly regarding singles strategy.
“Whether he plays second or third singles is part of the team’s strategy. The second and third positions are crucial. Player line-ups will be entirely decided by Kenneth Jonassen, Director of Singles Coaching, and Rexy Mainaky, Director of Doubles Coaching. They will analyse and determine who is most suitable for the first, second, and third singles,” he said.
Chong Wei also hopes Zii Jia will reach peak fitness ahead of the tournament and advised him to seek support from the National Sports Institute (ISN) if additional recovery or physical preparation is required.
The 28-year-old has struggled with ankle and back injuries over the past year, causing concern when he withdrew from this week’s German Open. He has clarified, however, that the injuries are not serious.
“As athletes, we know the challenges we face. Injuries are always the greatest concern. Zii Jia has shared his experience managing injuries and returning to full fitness. Our hope is that he recovers fully and performs better in upcoming tournaments. The aim is not selfishly for the Thomas Cup, but to ensure all Malaysian players are in top condition and can give their best, match by match,” Chong Wei said.
He also revealed that Zii Jia might compete at the Switzerland Open from 10 to 15 March, where he is currently on the first standby list.
For this Thomas Cup campaign, Zii Jia is allowed to bring his personal team, including coach Liew Daren and three support staff, to ensure continuity in his training and preparation.
