KUALA LUMPUR: Messages from close friends and former teammates of shuttler Tan Chee Tean have started flooding in following his tragic passing.
The 24-year-old Kedah-born, died in a car crash on Friday after competing in the Czech Open in the South of Brno.
In a statement released by the BA of Malaysia (BAM),,the former national men's and mixed doubles player died on the spot from the impact of the collision.
There were two other shuttlers in the car, who are still seeking treatment for serious injuries.
It is understood that Chee Tean was traveling back to Austria, where he was plying his trade as an independent player.
Chee Tean, who enjoyed a six-year stint with BAM since 2012, left in February this year.
"We welcomed him like a brother into our badminton family. He was a guy with a big heart and big dreams.
"He would always seek advice, and I was very happy when he said he wanted to head to Austria to continue studying and also play badminton. Things were going well for him.
"We will miss you. Rest in peace my dear friend. My deepest condolences to your family," said former women's doubles player Erica Khoo, who is now a development officer with the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
Chee Tean's former men's doubles partner, Tan Wee Gieen still couldn't accept the news.
"It's too hard. In fact, he visited us at the ABM (Academy Badminton Malaysia) a month ago to tell us about his plans of relocating to Austria.
"As a partner on court, we had a good relationship. We also used to hang out quite a bit off the court as well. I pray that you will rest in peace brother," said Wee Gieen.
Top mixed doubles shuttler Shevon Lai Jemie, who currently makes up the World No 8 pair with partner Goh Soon Huat, said it was too difficult to even say anything.
"I have yet to come to terms with the news of his passing. I'm sorry, no words can describe this," said Shevon, who together with Chee Tean finished second at the 2015 Thailand International Challenge.
At the Czech Open, Chee Tean and his Austrian partner, Antonia Meinke, lost in the first round.
Antonia was also involved in the car crash.