Lee Chong Wei | Badminton Career and Retirement

Lee Chong Wei is a retired Malaysian badminton player widely regarded as one of the sport’s all-time greats. He was born on October 21, 1982, in Bagan Serai, a tiny town in Malaysia’s state of Perak.

Badminton Beginnings

Chong Wei began playing badminton when he was 11 years old, and his talent was instantly recognized by trainers who spotted his potential. Peng Huat instructed him in badminton. He earned his first title, a bronze medal, in the Asian Junior Championships when he was 17 years old.

Badminton Career & Olympics

He made his senior international badminton debut in 2003, and he immediately rose to prominence for his remarkable talents and accomplishments. He earned his first major international championship in 2004, when he won the Malaysia Open, followed by another victory the following year in the Chinese Taipei Open.

Lee qualified for the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens. He overcame Hong Kong’s Ng Wei in the opening round of his Olympic debut. His adventure came to an end in the second round when he was beaten by Chen Hong.

In the years afterwards, Chong Wei has dominated the badminton world, winning several titles and medals at renowned competitions including as the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, and World Championships. He also won three Olympic silver medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016, making him the only Malaysian player to do so.

Retirement

Lee Chong Wei remained resilient and driven despite many losses and hurdles in his career, including injuries and bans due to drug allegations. On the court, he was known for his speed, agility, and precision, as well as his sportsmanship and humility off the court.

He announced his retirement from professional badminton in 2018 owing to health concerns. He had been diagnosed with early-stage nose cancer and chose to withdraw from the sport that had earned him so much glory and renown.

Lee was a beloved figure in Malaysia and across the world during his career, and he inspired millions of fans with his devotion, hard work, and enthusiasm for badminton. He is still regarded as a sporting star and a role model for young sportsmen worldwide.