Kuala Lumpur
Lee Zii Jia believes he is in his element after staging a superb comeback to reach the semi-finals of the Malaysia Masters at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil yesterday.
In what he described as an outstanding performance, the 22-year-old upset former World No 2 Shi Yuqi of China 12-21, 21-16, 21-19 to set up a clash with World No 1 Kento Momota of Japan today.
The win was also the Malaysian’s first over the China ace, who is making a comeback after an ankle injury last year.
‘I must admit that Yu Qi was not at his best. You could still see him struggling a little,but he is still a top shuttler who is very experienced. I couldn’t match him in the first game.
‘Thankfully, I slowly found my rhythm and came back in the second and third game. It was an outstanding match.
‘This week has been great, I have improved and am more composed on court,’ said the Sea Games gold medallist, who has yet to overcome Momota in all five previous meetings.
On whether he could finally defeat the Japanese ace, who has already pulled out of next week’s Indonesia Open, Zii Jia added:’I cannot say, Momota is a different player all together.
‘He (Momota) said he is tired from playing in too many tournaments last year but his performance this week shows otherwise.
‘Whatever it is, I promise to give my best.’
On a separate note, more restructuring could be expected from the BAM following today’s council meeting.
Although nothing has been confirmed, there may be further discussions on the possibility of moving men’s singles coach Misbun Sidek to the national junior squad.
BAM secretary general Datuk Kenny Goh, when met yesterday, said:’It’s the first out of four council meetings of the year.
‘Following our C&T (Coaching and Training Committee) meeting last week, there are several matters that need the council’s approval.
‘BAM is always looking at ways to progress and move forward, so let’s see.’
Last week, the national body axed seven players from the national squad and hinted that women’s singles and doubles coach Tey Seu Bock and Rosman Razak could be on their way out.
