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In a surprising turn of events, prominent Malaysian men’s singles badminton player, Lee Zii Jia, has shared a series of unsettling illustrations on his Instagram account, causing widespread concern among fans and the badminton community. The post, which contained 10 black-and-white images with no explanation or caption, featured images such as a faceless, stitched-up figure holding a long, blood-stained needle, and another showing a person lying on a sofa with sharp objects piercing their body and an exposed brain[1][2].
Zii Jia, who has not competed since March, announced a break to focus on recovering from a foot injury sustained earlier this year. His ranking has dropped to No. 27, and he has applied for a protected ranking with the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to safeguard his position during this period[1][2]. As an independent player, he faces added pressure from sponsors and public expectations regarding his return to competition, which has likely compounded the emotional toll of his injury and layoff[2].
Fellow badminton star Liu Ying has publicly advised Zii Jia to seek help if he is struggling with internal battles. She highlighted the importance of releasing pressure, whether through talking to friends or finding coping strategies that work for him. Liu Ying also mentioned that the frustration from injury and the high expectations from sponsors could be significant factors affecting his state of mind[2].
At present, Zii Jia has not responded publicly to the concerns, and attempts to reach his sister and team manager, Lee Zii Yii, for comment have been unsuccessful[2]. The situation remains sensitive, with many expressing hope that Zii Jia receives the support he needs.
It is important to note that Zii Jia has only competed in two tournaments this year: the Orleans Masters and the All England in March. The Badminton World Federation (BWF), the governing body responsible for safeguarding Zii Jia's position during his recovery, has not yet issued a statement regarding the matter[1].
The disturbing Instagram post was shared while Zii Jia was recovering from his foot injury, and fans have expressed concerns about his emotional wellbeing. The BWF's decision on granting Zii Jia a protected ranking will play a crucial role in his return to competition, allowing him to maintain his position in tournaments during his recovery period.
[1] The Star Online. (2022, May 18). Zii Jia's Instagram post sparks concern over his wellbeing. Retrieved from https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/badminton/2022/05/18/zii-jias-instagram-post-sparks-concern-over-his-wellbeing
[2] The Straits Times. (2022, May 18). Badminton star Lee Zii Jia's Instagram post sparks concern over his wellbeing. Retrieved from https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/badminton-star-lee-zii-jias-instagram-post-sparks-concern-over-his-wellbeing
- In light of the unsettling images shared on his Instagram account, the badminton community and fans are hoping that sports-analysis can provide insights into Lee Zii Jia's mental state during his recovery from injury, to ensure he receives the necessary support.
- Amidst the concerns over Lee Zii Jia's wellbeing, it's crucial for the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to release a sports-analysis report addressing his social media post and the potential impact on his performance, as it may reveal factors affecting his state of mind and future competitions.
