KUALA LUMPUR: In 2019, Toh Ee Wei quit the national team and retired from badminton due to a sinus problem.
Though she recovered and rejoined a year later, that was not the last of her health issues.
In 2021, the 25-year-old was diagnosed with bone tuberculosis in her back, a debilitating condition that kept her in hospital.
The Melaka athlete endured constant pain, often relying on painkillers to manage her condition.
With the support of the BA of Malaysia (BAM), National Sports Council (NSC), National Sports Institute (NSI) and the Road to Gold (RTG) programme, Ee Wei underwent months of rehabilitation and painstakingly rebuilt her game.
Two years later, she made her comeback and, partnering Chen Tang Jie, captured the Orleans Masters title. The breakthrough lifted them into the world’s top 20.
On Sunday in Paris, their journey reached a historic milestone when they became Malaysia’s first-ever world champions in mixed doubles.
“I had many ups and downs, and a lot of sickness as well,” said Ee Wei after arriving at KLIA from Paris today.
“But thanks to NSC, NSI, Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh and RTG, I was able to go all out on court and give my best.”
For the duo, their triumph was not just about talent. Their partnership had once faltered due to communication issues, but in Paris their chemistry was undeniable.
“When we stepped onto the court, the feeling was already different,” said Ee Wei.
“Tang Jie was so fired up and he pulled me along with him. That communication really helped us.”
Tang Jie echoed Ee Wei’s sentiments. “Every tournament is an experience. It’s not just that winning makes everything good, or losing makes it negative. What we do every day, how we communicate every day, that’s what matters most.”
That persistence delivered a Merdeka Day victory that will be remembered as one of Malaysia’s finest badminton achievements.
“We play with the flag on our chest. We’re proud of it and want to win for Malaysia,” said Ee Wei.
For a player who once lay in a hospital bed facing an uncertain future, the world title is reward for Ee Wei’s pain, determination and hard work.
“This is not the end point,” added Tang Jie. “We must stay humble and keep chasing the next championship.”
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
