KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 — Lee Zii Jia’s 2024 season looks increasingly uncertain after the Malaysian badminton star pulled out of the upcoming Australian Open due to a lingering back injury.
According to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) website, the independent shuttler’s name appeared under the “withdrawn” list for the Sydney tournament, set to take place from November 18 to 23.
The 27-year-old has been battling the back injury since his last competitive outing at the China Masters in September.
His withdrawal from the Australian Open marks yet another setback in a year marred by fitness concerns and inconsistent form.Lee’s continued absence from competition raises fresh doubts about whether he will return to the court before the year ends.
His final registered event for the season is the Syed Modi India International, scheduled for November 25 to 30.
The world No. 11 has endured a stop-start year, pulling out of several tournaments since May and missing key events such as the Asian Games in Hangzhou.
Once hailed as Malaysia’s next big hope after Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei’s retirement, Lee’s career has been plagued by injuries and fluctuations in confidence since turning independent in 2022.
Fans will now be hoping he recovers in time to rebuild momentum ahead of the 2025 season, especially with the BWF World Tour Finals and the Paris Olympic cycle looming large.
