Lee Zii Jia (right) training at Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil on Sunday ahead of the Malaysia Open. - PIC BY FATHIL ASRIKUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Lee Zii Jia is taking a "calculated risk" by returning from injury at the Malaysia Open to revive his world ranking before his protected status expires next month. The protected ranking ends in February, and that's why I have to come back," said Zii Jia after a training session at the Axiata Arena on Sunday. Despite his current low ranking, Zii Jia said he does not consider himself an underdog for the home tournament. Zii Jia moved comfortably on court during training and is scheduled to compete in the India Open, Indonesia Masters, and Thailand Masters following his home campaign.

Source: New Strait Times January 04, 2026 07:47 UTC