KUALA LUMPUR: Former World No 1 Lee Chong Wei announced his retirement from badminton in Putrajaya today.
“Today, everyone knows my intention for calling this press conference. I would like to announce my retirement from the sport after 19 years,” said an emotional Chong Wei in a press conference at the Sports Ministry in Putrajaya.
“I made this decision following discussions with my wife, Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman recently.
“It is a tough decision but I was left with no option after my recent visit to my doctors in Japan last month.
“I was given eight questionnaires to answer about my condition and the outcome came out to show that I am not fit to do high intensity activities.
“So it is not suitable for me to exert myself and sacrifice my health.
“Thank you to all Malaysians. I also want to thank the Sports Ministry, BAM and my coaches Misbun Sidek and Tey Seu Bock along with other concerned parties for their help throughout the years.”
Chong Wei also thanked the media for supporting his career.
“I will miss the media who have been following my career for almost two decades.
“This is my final press conference,” added Chong Wei, who has been appointed Chef-de-mission for next year's Tokyo Olympics.
Chong Wei was diagnosed with nose cancer last July after the Indonesian Open.