Chong Wei still has high hopes

By Fadhli Ishak | fadhli@nstp.com.my

LAST HURRAH: London Olympics silver medallist does not rule out 2016 Rio De Janeiro Games appearance

DESPITE jesting recently he may need a walking stick to compete at the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Games, Lee Chong Wei has not ruled not the possibility of making one last Olympic appearance.

The 30-year-old, who came agonisingly close to clinching the nation's first-ever Olympic gold medal in the final against Lin Dan of China in London on Sunday, said good health and the ability to perform at a high level, could see him in the Olympic mix again.

"For the time being, I am not going to think too much about the 2016 Games as it is still a long time from now," said Chong Wei upon his arrival from London at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport yesterday.

"My focus for the time being is the World Championships next year and the Asian and Commonwealth Games the following year. However, I may decide to compete in Brazil if I feel I am capable.

"It will depend on my condition at the time especially in regard to injuries. My level of fitness and ability to recover from matches will also be an important factor I will have to look at."

National singles coach Rashid Sidek said he had no doubts Chong Wei would be able to qualify for the next Olympics but contending for a medal at the Games would be a different story.

"At the moment he is still physically in very good shape. However, in the future we do not know if he will sustain any injuries that will affect him," said Rashid.

"He should be able to qualify (for 2016 Olympics) but contending for medals may be difficult and I do not know if he will be satisfied just being a contender as he has very high standards.

Chong Wei, however, stressed the importance of developing younger players to take over his place and added that he will also be playing an active role in developing talent.

"I have discussed the matter with my coaches and Badminton Association of Malaysia and they have said they will be doing their best to produce new talent," said Chong Wei.

"There may be a training group formed to develop the younger players where I, as a senior player, will try and encourage and groom these junior players."

Fans waiting to greet Lee Chong Wei at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport on his return from the London Olympics yesterday. Pic by Goh Thean Howe

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Chong Wei still has high hopes

LAST HURRAH: London Olympics silver medallist does not rule out 2016 Rio De Janeiro Games appearance

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