ZCZC
BSP-05
BADMINTON-MAS-LEE-CANCER
Cancer-hit badminton ace Lee hoping to make comeback
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Malaysian badminton star Lee Chong
Wei has said he is recovering well and hopes to make a comeback following
nose cancer treatment in Taiwan, a report said Monday.
The world number five and three-time Olympic silver medallist also posted
pictures on social media of himself and his wife smiling and holding their
children to mark his 36th birthday on Sunday.
Lee returned to Malaysia on October 7 after treatment for early-stage nose
cancer in Taiwan, but he has put public appearances on hold to focus on his
recovery.
In comments published in the New Straits Times newspaper, Lee said that “my
health is my main priority right now.
“The recovery process has been good so far but I still need rest. Once I am
given the green light to make a comeback, I will.”
“I thank everyone who encouraged and stood by me in my most difficult
time,” he added.
A return to the game would be a remarkable feat for Malaysia’s best known
sports star, who has already had to fight his way back up the world rankings
after being hit with a doping ban in 2015.
He tested positive for a forbidden anti-inflammatory drug at the 2014 world
championships and many feared it would end his career.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) announced last month that Lee
had been diagnosed with early-stage nose cancer.
BAM had said in July that Lee was suffering from a respiratory-related
disorder and was pulling out of the World Championships and Asian Games.
He is a superstar in his homeland after his long run of success at
badminton’s highest levels, despite his oft-lamented failure to win a world
or Olympic title.
BSS/AFP/FI/ 1455 hrs