PETALING JAYA: Independent men’s singles shuttler Lee Jan Jireh (pic) is taking the tough decision to retire from the sport due to lack of funding.
Jan Jireh proved his potential when he unexpectedly finished runner-up to fellow Malaysian Eogene Ewe in the Malaysian International Challenge in Ipoh yesterday, but it turned out to be a bittersweet outing for the 20-year-old, who has been forced to call it quits right after the tournament.
The youngster, who was dropped from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) last year and currently ranked No. 354 in the world, stunned several higher ranked players like fellow Malaysian Ong Zhen Yi (No. 109), India’s Manraj Singh (No. 66) and Mithun Manjunath (No. 130) en route to the final.
Jan Jireh nearly pulled off another upset in the title match before going down fighting 15-8, 7-15, 13-15 to world No. 80 Eogene at the Arena Badminton Perak.
“I really like to continue playing badminton but I am forced to retire due to lack of funding,” said Jan Jireh.
“Currently, I hardly have any time to train as I have to coach 10 hours a day to make money to travel and compete in tournaments.
“I can only train three days in a month. I am coaching freelance state players in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
“Travelling for competitions is very expensive and I just cannot continue like this,” added Jan Jireh.
However, the Penang-born Jan Jireh would consider continuing his playing career if he manages to get sponsors.
“I will definitely continue playing if I can get sponsors. If not, I will just continue coaching,” said Jan Jireh.
“I will be inconsistent if I cannot train regularly and if I were to play, I want to become better.”
Meanwhile, for Eogene, it was his second senior title after his maiden win in the Slovenian Open in May.
