WILL Lee Chong Wei ever make a comeback? That is the big question on the lips of badminton fans since the former World No 1 withdrew from the Malaysia Open (April 2-7) after being advised by his doctor not to push himself.
Chong Wei, who has not played a competitive match since he was diagnosed with early stage nose cancer last July, had initially planned to return at the All England early this month.
But his delay in getting back to top flight badminton has thrown a spanner in the works amid the 37-year-old’s plans to feature in his fifth Olympic Games in Tokyo next year.
And with the one-year Olympic qualifying period fast approaching (in May) Chong Wei could be running out of time.
Former BAM high performance director Datuk James Selvaraj said yesterday: “I am no doctor, so I cannot say for sure, but if I were Chong Wei, I wouldn't even think about badminton.
“Given his age and the fact that he hasn't regained full fitness makes it very hard for him. His priority should be his health, not making a comeback.
“I get it, everyone wants to see Chong Wei play again but these are the same people who will bash him if he does not perform.
“Expectations are high but I'm afraid he won't be able to deliver,” he added.
Rashid Sidek, another key figure in the local badminton scene, believes Chong Wei is in a dilemma.
The former Olympic (1996) bronze medallist, who coached Chong Wei before leaving BAM in 2015, said: “His mind and heart must be all over the place right now.
“I am quite certain he is very confused, will he or will he not make a comeback?
“And on top of that, he wants to qualify for his fifth Olympic Games next year. It is not easy.
“He has only been training three times a week since he got back on court in January. He is not fully fit. Top flight badminton is no joke.
“I know Chong Wei, he won't compete in a tournament simply to make up the numbers. He is a person who plays to win, he does not settle for anything less than a last four finish.
“I don't think Chong Wei should pressure himself to play in the Olympics next year. Health always comes first. He is already a legend with four Olympic appearances and three silver medals (2008, 2012 and 2016).
“Nothing is impossible, I know, but given the circumstances, I do not think it's going to be easy this time.”
Chong Wei’s former national teammate Hafiz Hashim shares similar sentiments with James and Rashid. But he feels it is still Chong Wei's right to decide on his future.
“As a friend, I will support Chong Wei in whatever decision he makes because only he can decide for himself.
“I would want to see him recover fully. Coming back from a battle with cancer is not something you hear everyday.
“His situation is very different from what he went through in the past. When he was serving his eight-month doping suspension (2014), he still trained hard but not this time.
“He has lost his tournament feeling, so it's going to be tough. I just want to see him recover fully, and he can take as long as he wants to do so,” said the 2003 All England champion.