PETALING JAYA: Independent men’s singles shuttler Cheam June Wei has urged the players dropped from the national team this year to not give up on their badminton careers.
Jacky Kok, Chua Kim Sheng, Ong Zhen Yi and Lee Jan Jireh were the men’s singles players dropped by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) earlier this month.
June Wei, who was once in their shoes, understands the tough situation Jacky and the others were in but advised them to soldier on as professional players.
The 27-year-old left BAM in 2021 after struggling with his form and confidence.
“As a professional player, it’s not easy especially for players not ranked in the top 10 or 20 in the world,” said June Wei.
“For higher ranked players, it’s easier to get sponsorships but I hope the young players dropped by BAM don’t give up easily.
“Life goes on and I believe everyone can find the best way for them to continue their careers.”
World No. 58 June Wei is currently the fourth ranked men’s singles player in the country behind world No. 7 Lee Zii Jia, Leong Jun Hao (No. 30) and Justin Hoh (No. 50).
June Wei recently overtook former national No. 2 Ng Tze Yong, who dropped to No. 62 in the world after missing nearly all tournaments this year due to a persistent back injury.
June Wei currently trains under former international Ong Ewe Hock and also undergoes sparring sessions about three to four times a week in BAM.
His best achievement this year was finishing runner-up in the World Tour Super 100 Taiwan Masters in June.
June Wei was also part of the team that won bronze in the Thomas Cup Finals in Chengdu in May.
He hopes to be called up for more team events after this.
“Whenever BAM call me up, I hope to be there. I need to make sure my level does not drop much,” said June Wei.
“I’m thankful to BAM for allowing me to train there sometimes. I hope to prove myself by doing better in tournaments.”
