Surreal: Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei celebrating their win. — AFP
SEPANG: Nine years ago, mixed doubles shuttlers Chen Tang Jie-Toh Ee Wei showed their talent when they won bronze in the World Junior Championships in Bilbao, Spain.
Tang Jie-Ee Wei have well and truly realised their potential on the senior stage when they created history by capturing gold in the World Championships.
The pair had toppled China’s Jiang Zhenbang-Wei Yaxin in the final in Paris on Sunday, becoming the first mixed duo to win the world title for Malaysia.
It’s been a long, testing road, especially for Ee Wei. The 24-year-old nearly quit badminton four years ago after being diagnosed with bone tuberculosis and later battled acute sinusitis during her junior days.
“My journey was not easy. There has been lots of ups and downs,” said Ee Wei when met at the Kuala Lumpur Internatio-nal Airport yesterday.
“I was sick and nearly gave up on badminton about four years ago. I had to go through rehab and my physiotherapist in BAM (Badminton Association of Malaysia) helped me start from zero. Step by step, I had to fight all the way.
“I want to thank everyone who helped me and Tang Jie achieve this,” added Ee Wei.
Ee Wei though showed great resilience and determination to overcome the various challenges thrown her way.
She shared the key to regaining their best form in the world meet.
“Heading into the tournament, it was difficult as many things happened to us,” said Ee Wei.
“It was a different feeling though on court as it was the World Championships.
“Every player wants to win for their country.
“Tang Jie was fired up and encouraged me as well. The final was also on National Day and we wanted to try hard.”
