PETALING JAYA: Taiwanese shuttler Chou Tien-chen is truly one of a kind.
On Sunday, the cancer survivor displayed remarkable grit and endurance as he battled for 77 minutes to defeat world No. 3 Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand 21-11, 12-21, 21-19 in the Arctic Open men’s singles final to capture his first title of the season.
Despite bleeding from a blister on his left foot, the 34-year-old refused to quit, showing incredible perseverance in a thrilling three-game encounter.
Remarkably, all of Tien-chen’s earlier matches in the tournament had lasted over an hour, a testament to his tremendous stamina and fighting spirit.
Malaysia’s badminton legend Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei was among those left in awe of the Taiwanese star’s tenacity and indomitable will.
Tien-chen was diagnosed with colorectal cancer early last year.
"This player is simply extraordinary. I watched his game in awe," said Chong Wei.
"At this age and after suffering from cancer, Tien-chen continue to show his passion in the game. His fighting spirit is admirable."
Chong Wei, who himself was forced to retire after being diagnosed with nose cancer in 2019, knows better than most the physical and emotional toll athletes face.
The three-time Olympic Games silver medal winner Chong Wei credited Tien-chen’s unique training setup and positive mindset for his longevity in the game.
Tien-chen is greatly supported by his physiotherapist.
"He doesn’t train with the national team but with a club instead. He competes in almost every tournament and uses those matches as part of his training," said Chong Wei.
"He might lose some, but he keeps enjoying the game. The tournaments become his training ground. This approach is different, but it works for him."
