WOMEN’S badminton singles Sonia Cheah Su Ya’s hopes of returning to action this year may not materialise.
The 21-year-old, who snapped her right Achilles tendon during training a year ago, had already gone under the knife four times.
Sonia, a former national No 1, has even dropped out of the world ranking.
“I hope to return to full fitness by the end of the year. I can then focus on improving my world ranking,” she said yesterday.
“My main target is to make a full comeback, and play for Malaysia at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.
Sonia, who is now under the care of National Sports Institute’s chief executive officer, Datuk Dr Ramlan Abdul Aziz, expressed her disappointment with some of the doctors at the Kuala Lumpur Sports Medical Centre (KLSMC) in Damansara.
“I am disappointed with some of the doctors at KLSMC, who took so long to identify my injury.
“I had four surgeries in total, and I think they could have treated me better.”
“I am also disappointed with myself for letting my coaches and family down, as many have expected me to make a sooner return. I was even visiting the hospital during Chinese New Year,” Sonia lamented.
The Kuala Lumpur-born player admitted to still having pain whenever she walks or when there is pressure on her right foot. However, her condition has been improving since receiving treatment from Dr Ramlan.
“I have started training twice a day, but it involves very light training and some weights at the gym.
“I must also thank everyone who has been supporting me and I will do my best to return as soon as possible.”