Badminton

Chong Wei marks 35th birthday with new career perspective

KUALA LUMPUR: Set to celebrate his 35th birthday on Saturday, Lee Chong Wei is happy to just enjoy the game as he eases into the twilight of his career.

Chong Wei will compete in the Denmark Open next week, but is not setting any lofty targets for himself. He will open against Spaniard Pablo Abian in the first round of Wednesday.

"This (Denmark Open) is the second last Super Series tournament of the year and I feel it is important that I just enjoy myself and take things one match at a time," said the World No 7.

"Of course, everyone wants to win and it is the same with me. However, for me to stay competitive at the highest level, it is important that I think about the bigger picture.

"I need to take care of myself and avoid picking up any injuries.

"After what happened at the World Championships, I managed to reach the Japan Open final and have regained some of my confidence," he said.

Chong Wei recently admitted that he had contemplated retiring from the sport after his shock first round exit at the Glasgow World Championships in August.

He added that the Denmark Open, which he won in 2005 and 2012, as well as the French Open next week, are both important as he looks to secure his berth at the Super Series Finals in Dubai in December.

"There are no more major competitions left this season, so my main focus for now is to qualify for the Super Series Finals. I will do my best at the Denmark and French Opens," Chong Wei added.

Only the top eight ranked players in the world will qualify for the Super Series Finals.

Translated from Berita Harian

Most Popular
Related Article
Says Stories