PETALING JAYA: The door remains open for women’s doubles shuttler Go Pei Kee to return to the national set-up.
BAM performance committee chairman Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei admitted he was surprised by news of the 23-year-old’s decision to leave the national squad. He said he first learned of it through media reports before being officially informed by BAM management.
It is understood that Pei Kee has returned to her home in Johor and is no longer training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara. Chong Wei said he wants to give her some space, especially with Chinese New Year just days away.
"I’m not sure. I saw her post on social media about her intention to split from her partner. I haven’t met her personally. I have only seen her during training and matches," said Chong Wei.
"We haven't had a one-to-one discussion about any personal matters. I hope that after Chinese New Year she will return and we can sit down and talk," said Chong Wei.
Chong Wei also stressed that Pei Kee has no behavioural issues and is keen to see her back in the national team.
Moreover, he is also open to pairing Pei Kee with a new partner if needed.
“We know she is not a player with discipline issues. I am not fully aware of everything that happened, but BAM have informed me about the situation. We need to discuss this properly, one to one, to understand her thoughts.
"We hope for good news that she can come back, and if necessary, we can consider pairing her with a different partner," he added.
Pei Kee had earlier surprised many by announcing her intention to part ways with her partner, Teoh Mei Xing.
A few days later, she reportedly submitted her resignation and shared a video on social media reflecting on her journey as a badminton player and packing her personal belongings at the Academy Badminton Malaysia hostel.
During their partnership, Pei Kee and Mei Xing reached a career-high ranking of 18 in the world and won the Malaysia Super 100 title in 2024.
