PETALING JAYA: Men’s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia received some timely advice from Chinese great Chen Long ahead of the World Championships, which start on Monday (Aug 25) in Paris.
Zii Jia has endured a tough year so far after suffering an ankle injury in the World Tour Finals in Hangzhou in December, and will be making his first competitive appearance in Paris since the All-England in March.
Chen Long, who captured the world title in 2014 and 2015, offered words of encouragement to the independent player.
“Zii Jia, I know the weight of a nation can feel heavy on your shoulders,” said Chen Long via social media.
“I’ve been there – the pressure, the doubts, the endless expectations. But remember, champions are not built in a single match. They are forged through patience, discipline and belief.
“Don’t let one loss define you. Learn from it. Trust your training, trust yourself.
“Play with calmness because strength without calm is wasted. Stay focused, stay humble and the moment will come.
“Greatness takes time but it always rewards those who refuse to give up,” added Chen Long.
Chen Long’s message could be just the boost Zii Jia needs before the world meet.
The 27-year-old will open his campaign in Paris against South Korea’s Jeon Hyeok-jin.
