KUALA LUMPUR: Former world No 1 Lee Chong Wei has urged Lee Zii Jia to pick himself up and return stronger for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Three-time Olympic silver medallist Chong Wei was quick to encourage his younger compatriot, who crashed out of the Tokyo Olympics round of 16 yesterday after succumbing to an 8-21, 21-19, 21-5 defeat to China's Chen Long.
Chong Wei, who is also Chef de Mission for the Malaysian contingent, posted on his social media platforms: "Don't be disheartened Zii Jia, it was a really good performance. The whole of Malaysia watched you give your best.
"With more experience, you'll be able to make quick work of someone like Chen Long in the future."
Five years ago in Rio, it was Chen Long who denied Chong Wei and Malaysia the elusive gold medal in the final.
"Chen Long was not crowned champion in 2016 for nothing. He may look innocent, but he is a very clever player who studies his opponent well.
"Zii Jia definitely had the edge over Chen Long in terms of power, speed and technique but perhaps it was difficult for him to manage his nerves when it mattered most.
"Who wouldn't have nerves in their Olympic debut? I wasn't at my best in my first Olympics," said Chong Wei, who also lost in the round of 16 at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
Chong Wei, who hung up his racquet in 2019 after being diagnosed with nose cancer, believes Zii Jia will be a force to be reckoned with in three years' time.
"Keep your chin up Zii Jia. Your quest for Olympic glory is not over, only delayed.
"The next Olympics is just three years from now. I am proud of you, Malaysians are proud of you.
"On a lighter note, maybe you should start training in Melaka (Jasin), you might stand a chance to win gold," quipped Chong Wei in reference to Philippines weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz who won the women's 55kg gold at the Tokyo Olympics after training for more than a year in Melaka.