PETALING JAYA: Recovering from an injury is already a challenge, but doing it away from home can add salt to the wound.
And national mixed doubles shuttler Toh Ee Wai finds herself in precisely this situation as she undergoes rehabilitation in Australia.
“I miss home. It is my first time being away for such an extended period,” said Ee Wei yesterday.
The 25-year-old underwent surgery on her left knee in Melbourne at the start of the month after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during the Singapore Open in May.
Ee Wei, who is the country's first mixed doubles world champion with Chen Tang Jie, expressed how her rigorous rehabilitation schedule even prevented her from following the recently concluded Japan Open.
Tang Jie and his new pair Clarissa San were knocked out in the first round of the Japan Open.
“I have not watched the matches because my day is fully consumed by the rehabilitation. It is a constant cycle of meetings with the physiotherapist and surgeon here," said Ee Wei.
However, drawing upon her resilient mindset from the court, Ee Wei is diligently working towards her full recovery.
“This is a sacrifice I must make as an athlete. I'm eager to return to the court as quick as possible.”
Other than the bouts of homesickness, Ee Wei was pleased that the recovery process was proceeding smoothly.
“My recovery has been going well here. Although it is still in its early stages, things are moving positively.”
Despite that, there is no predetermined date for her return to her homeland yet.
“I have not yet set any specific target for my return. I will observe my condition and progress.”
“My focus is recovering and coming back stronger."
With her current situation, Ee Wei is unlikely to defend the title with Tang Jie at the World Championships in New Delhi in September.
