2024 Paris Badminton Open: Lee Zii Jia Beats French Player Thomas Popov, Advances to Quarterfinals

Jayce September 6, 2024 6 0

Amidst the thunderous cheers of the crowd at Stade de La Rochelle, Lee Zii Jia told himself this as he battled point by point against French player Thomas Popov, striving to level the score for a third set.

The Malaysian player has openly acknowledged facing psychological struggles in recent years, but he found inner calm to defeat his resilient opponent with scores of 21-13, 24-22, securing a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Paris Badminton Championship on Thursday, August 1.

“The second game was tough, and I expected the third to be even tougher,” Lee said. “Firstly, the crowd here is definitely passionate, and Popov played a fantastic match today. I’ve faced him several times, and he’s definitely in top form. I have great respect for him.

“I just wanted to stay calm on court and focus on every point. That’s all I did.” Three years ago at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Lee Zii Jia was eliminated in the round of 16. He is the first Malaysian player to reach the Olympic quarterfinals since Lee Chong Wei’s silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Despite maintaining a lead throughout the first game, Lee faced almost losing the second game, saving two game points before securing the final three points of the match.

But Lee appeared unwavering as Popov—the last French player standing in the badminton arena—attempted to break his defense, maintaining his composure throughout.

Lee Zii Jia’s 47 minutes on court were hard-fought, with every point won by Popov drawing cheers from the home crowd, but Lee held firm.

This is good news for Lee Zii Jia as he prepares to face Danish player Anders Antonsen in Friday’s quarterfinals. Lee refused comparisons with Lee Chong Wei, believing they are on equal footing.

“I mean, he’s irreplaceable,” Lee Zii Jia said. “He’s a legend, and all his achievements are incredible. Unbelievable. The records and accomplishments he set are unbreakable.”

“Tomorrow, I’ll face my friend Anders Antonsen in the quarterfinals, hoping both of us can perform well.”