National coaching director Kenneth Jonassen says Lee Zii Jia’s return is positive for the sport, highlighting his star power and importance for the Thomas Cup.
KUALA LUMPUR: National singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen has hailed Lee Zii Jia’s return to competitive badminton as a positive development for the sport in Malaysia.
Jonassen described the professional shuttler as a “star” who brings something special, choosing not to critique his recent performances.
“It’s not my job to comment on his performances. What I would say as a fan is that it’s good to see him back. He is a star in this game and brings something extra,” Jonassen told reporters after a training session.
He recalled the electric atmosphere during Zii Jia’s return at the Malaysia Open earlier this month.
Zii Jia ended a 10-month winless run by reaching the second round of the Indonesia Masters this week.
His campaign there concluded with a loss to Thailand’s Panitchaphon Teeraratsakul at Istora Senayan in Jakarta.
The former All England champion had made his long-awaited comeback on January 6 after a 111-day hiatus.
He suffered first-round exits at both the Malaysia Open and last week’s India Open upon his return.
The 27-year-old has been managing injuries since hurting his ankle at the World Tour Finals in December 2024.
He took a complete rest after the China Masters last September to focus on full recovery.
Looking ahead, Jonassen said Zii Jia’s return increases Malaysia’s options for the Thomas Cup 2026 in Denmark.
He emphasised that team success would depend on more than just one player’s star power.
