Naqib Nor Said
KUALA LUMPUR: Which is Lee Chong Wei’s most memorable battle?
His answer came as a surprise. It’s not the Olympics, World Championships or All-England.
After playing 839 matches and winning 705 times over 19 years, Chong Wei revealed that the 2006 Malaysian Open final against Lin Dan was the most memorable.
The former World No. 1 said it was an unforgettable experience as Super Dan was only one match point away from victory as he led 20-13 in the rubber.
Somehow, Chong Wei pulled off a stunning comeback by winning seven straight points to level at 20-20 with the five-time world champion before winning 23-21.
“Of course the 2006 Malaysia Open win was the most memorable for me. Lin Dan was leading 20-13 and only needed one more point,” recalled Chong Wei.
“I still needed eight points and I was lucky I didn’t make any mistakes to eventually win the game.”
For the record, Chong Wei took 70 minutes to defeat Lin Dan 21-18, 18-21, 23-21 at Perpaduan Stadium in Kuching.
Chong Wei, 37, who won both the Olympic silver and World Championships silver three times, was also asked about the worst moments of his career.
His answers? Losing in the first round of the All England and facing a doping suspension.
“I remembered there was once I lost as early as the first round at the All England. It was among the lowest points of my career.
“Then there was the doping suspension. They were bitter memories for me,” said Chong Wei.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad posted a heartfelt video on Twitter to convey his sadness and gratefulness for what Chong Wei has done for the country through badminton.
“I feel touched and sad because our champion, Chong Wei has retired and I hope he gets to rest and recover from the sickness he endures,” said Dr Mahathir.
“I would like to thank Chong Wei for putting Malaysia on the international stage to emerge as champion multiple times and we will feel the loss of our champion due to his retirement.”
Mahathir’s video was followed by his wife, Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali’s message, which consoled Chong Wei after he expressed his regret at not winning an Olympic gold.
“You don’t have the opportunity to win the Olympic gold but it’s okay, Chong Wei. To me, health is very important and you have made the right decision,” said Siti Hasmah.
“Your family is there, your wife, your two sons. Enjoy them and as you mentioned in your statement you’ve taught them how to play badminton and God willing, they will play and get the Olympic gold for you when they have the chance to do so.
“I pray that you will be blessed with good health, enjoyment and happiness with you family and all the best. Don’t regret as you say, you’ve done the best you could for the country, yourself, your family and all of us. Thank you, Chong Wei.”
Chong Wei, who was diagnosed with nose cancer last year, announced his retirement from badminton on Thursday.