Injury forces Tze Yong out of Malaysian Open

KUALA LUMPUR: Men’s singles shuttler Ng Tze Yong was forced to retire in the first round of the Malaysian Open against Japan’s Koki Watanabe at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Wednesday (Jan 10) after pulling up with a back injury.

The score was level at 7-7 in the first game when Tze Yong hurt his back after executing a smash.

The world No. 15 called for medical assistance and tried to continue playing but had to concede the match after falling behind 8-12.

“I felt pain in my back after the smash,” said a dejected Tze Yong.

“I tried to continue, but the pain was too great, and I had no choice but to concede."

Malaysia’s challenge in the men’s singles is over after Tze Yong’s exit.