PETALING JAYA: World No. 6 men’s doubles player Man Wei Chong’s preparation for the world’s oldest badminton tournament, the All-England from March 3-8, has been disrupted by a right knee injury.
Wei Chong and his partner Tee Kai Wun were due to compete at the German Open this week but decided to withdraw to allow him sufficient rest ahead of the Birmingham meet next week.
It is a gamble as Wei Chong revealed that the medical team had actually advised him to take a longer break, including skipping the All-England.
“I have not resumed full on court training yet. I am only doing light sparring, along with rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
“I hope my condition will improve before the All-England. The doctor previously advised me to rest, but I still want to compete at the All-England. In the end, it will depend on my condition,” said Wei Chong.
He admitted the injury has somewhat disrupted his preparations but does not want to miss out on the prestigious event.
Last year, Wei Chong-Kai Wun suffered a first round exit at the hands of China’s He Jiting-Ren Xiangyu.
“This injury is on my right knee, and I had previously injured the same leg. But if I am given the opportunity to step on court, I will try my best,” he added.
The draw for this year’s All England will only be known today, with Malaysia fielding eight men’s doubles pairs, including Wei Chong-Kai Wun.
