Malaysian badminton ace Lee Zii Jia has clinched his first Olympic medal, grabbing bronze at the 2024 Paris Summer Games! 🎉🏸 Standing proudly on the podium, Lee's achievement marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
In an exclusive chat on \"Talk Sports\" with CGTN Sports Scene's Zhu Mandan, Lee opened up about his rollercoaster journey to Olympic glory and the emotions that came with it.
\"Not too long ago, I almost gave up on badminton,\" Lee confessed. \"Every time I stepped on the court, I felt unhappy. I wasn't enjoying the game. But in 2024, winning two titles, finishing second once, and now, earning an Olympic bronze—it feels amazing! I've been chasing consistency, and I think I'm getting there.\"
Securing the bronze wasn't easy. After a tough semifinal loss, Lee admitted he hesitated. \"I thought about how hard my opponents like China's Shi Yuqi and Denmark's Anders Antonsen worked,\" he shared. \"They gave it their all but didn't make it this far. That realization pushed me to seize the precious opportunity and fight for that medal.\"
Reflecting on his performance this year, Lee feels he's just scratching the surface. \"I've been striving for consistency,\" he said. \"Although I haven't mastered it yet, the first half of 2024 was pretty solid. Two titles, a runner-up finish, and an Olympic bronze—I'd say it's been okay. But next year, I'm aiming higher!\"
Lee also had heartfelt words for his coach, Wong Tat Meng, who's set to depart from his team. \"I want to thank him for believing in me,\" Lee expressed. \"He left home to become my coach when I was at a low point. His support, along with my hard work, led to my first Olympic medal in just a year and a half. I'm truly grateful.\"
With newfound confidence and a medal around his neck, Lee Zii Jia is poised to reach even greater heights. Latin America, keep an eye on this badminton star—he's just getting started! 🌟
Reference(s):
Olympic badminton bronze medalist Lee Zii Jia discusses Paris 2024
cgtn.com
