Interview with Lee Zii Jia: Embracing a New Self, Qualifying for Paris Olympics is Not a Problem

Jayce September 6, 2024 3 0

After defeating compatriot Huang Zhiyong 2-1, Malaysia’s top player Lee Zii Jia did not have an easy first-round victory at the China Badminton Masters. After the match, he sat down with our reporter for an exclusive interview, discussing his recent form, mindset, and prospects for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Regaining Confidence from the Arctic Open Victory

Q: Compared to your straight-set victory in the Arctic Open final a month ago, today’s match against Huang Zhiyong was more intense and the score was closer?

A: It was indeed a tough match. Huang Zhiyong is one of Malaysia’s younger players who has shown more stable performance this year compared to myself. He has defeated several high-level players, proving his strength. We both felt considerable pressure in today’s match, but in terms of on-court performance, I believe we delivered a thrilling match for the audience. I brought out my best level, and so did he. I feel that I am currently in a good competitive state.

Interview with Lee Zii Jia: Embracing a New Self, Qualifying for Paris Olympics is Not a Problem

Q: The victory at the Arctic Open, your first tour singles title in 17 months since last year’s Thailand Open, how has it boosted your confidence?

A: Indeed, it has been a while since I last won a title. This year has been quite up and down for me, more down than up, experiencing a prolonged period of low points. So, winning that title did restore some confidence for me, which made me quite happy and able to compete with better self-assurance.

Q: As you mentioned, this season hasn’t been smooth, with fluctuations in form. What were the main reasons for this?

A: Primarily, it was psychological pressure—my own expectations and those of my fans inevitably create pressure and influence. This is something we professional players cannot avoid; it’s the environment we live in. Some players may quickly overcome such challenges, but I need time. I’m not sure how long it will take, but I’m working hard every day to break through these difficulties, hoping to overcome them one day.

Q: In the recent 750-level tournaments in Europe—the Denmark and French Opens—you lost to Wang Hongyang and Li Shifeng respectively. What kind of challenge do Chinese players pose for you?

A: I must admit that when facing Chinese players, they often have the advantage. They are very familiar with my playing style and patterns, which makes it easier for them to counter me. However, this is normal in sports; it’s give and take. Perhaps next time, I’ll win. So, I prepare myself to face Chinese players, knowing they will continue to study my game. Regardless of win or loss, it’s all part of competition and learning.

Q: Not only are Chinese players familiar with you, but Chinese audiences also support you enthusiastically.

A: Yes, I deeply feel this. Every time I come to China to compete, it feels like a home ground. Everyone cheers for me, and I’m truly grateful. I hope to repay the fans who support me with better performances.

Having Different Experiences is My Growth

Q: However, in recent tournaments in China—the China Open in Changzhou, where you lost in the first round to Naraoka Koki, and the Hangzhou Asian Games, where you lost in the men’s team round of 16 to Guoyi Chen, as well as in the singles event, losing to Prannoy—these outcomes were disappointing. What are your expectations coming to Shenzhen this time?

A: It was unfortunate in the previous few tournaments in China; I didn’t perform well. However, wherever I compete in China, I hope to keep advancing, allowing fans to see me in the semifinals or even the final. This time, I will do my best, focusing on my responsibilities and preparing for each match.

Interview with Lee Zii Jia: Embracing a New Self, Qualifying for Paris Olympics is Not a Problem

Q: When people mention Lee Zii Jia, they often recall your role as the flag bearer for Malaysia at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and your victory at the All England Open. Do you ever think about returning to those peak moments from 2021?

A: For myself, I try not to dwell on those past highlights too much. I hope that the current Lee Zii Jia is a new Lee Zii Jia, a different one, because having different experiences is my growth, making me a more mature individual.

Q: Although you reached the round of 16 at the China Masters, you ultimately missed out on the year-end finals. Is there a sense of regret?

A: There is some regret, but I try to perform well in every competition, especially as this is the last tournament of the year. I hope to show a better performance.

Q: The journey for this year is almost over. What are your expectations for next year’s Olympic qualification events and the Paris Olympics itself?

A: I will continue to focus on my performance in each match, whether it’s this current tournament or the Olympic qualification events continuing into next year. With a few months until the end of the qualification period next year, as long as I maintain consistent performance, I believe qualifying for the Olympics and securing a spot is not a problem.