Lee Chong Wei May Hang Up Racquet

Petaling Jaya, 19 Dzulqa’dah 1437/22 August 2016  (MINA) – World number one Lee Chong Wei may hang up his racquet after next year’s world badminton championships in Glasgow, Scotland, thesundaily.com reported.

Speaking to the media after the men’s singles gold medal match at the Rio Olympics on Saturday night, Chong Wei announced that he would not compete in the next Olympics which will be held in Tokyo in 2020.

“I don’t think so. However, I will continue until next year’s World Championships and see how my condition is.

“I’ll probably stop playing to give the younger guys a chance to play in the 2020 Olympics.”

On his immediate plans, Chong Wei said he wanted to return home after spending three weeks in Rio.

“Now, I just want to go back to see my kids. I miss my kids, my family,” he said.

Chong Wei settled for a silver in the men’s singles after he lost to China’s Chen Long 21-18, 21-18.

Chong Wei, who was in tears, later apologised to the nation for not delivering the elusive Olympic gold.

Malaysians meanwhile continued to shower Chong Wei with praises and pledged to continue their support regardless of his loss to Chen Long.

They praised Chong Wei for his fighting spirit and said they still regarded him as the nation’s top sportsman.

“We are ever proud of you and will continue to stand behind you,” were the words of many on social media.

Another supporter said Chong Wei was an example to all and urged the younger generation to follow his footsteps. (T/R07/R01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)