Don't call me 'big-headed' - Zii Jia

SHAH ALAM - National professional men's singles player, Lee Zii Jia, has expressed his heartfelt sentiments regarding the latest issue involving professional players and the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).

The feelings of the former All England champion were conveyed through a comment on his coach's Instagram, Wong Tat Meng, who was surprised when BAM did not allow sports brand clothing other than the official sponsor's apparel.

"Don't later say I'm 'big-headed' for not coming to training. Aishhhhh... this is tough, to be LZJ (Lee Zii Jia), everything is my fault, I'm confused," he said in response to Tat Meng's status.

The comment received a lively response with a flurry of engagements, with most netizens expressing support for Tat Meng and Zii Jia's actions.

Earlier, Tat Meng voiced feeling "bullied" by the regulation, which came into effect as the national players were intensively training for the upcoming World Badminton Championships in Copenhagen, Denmark.

"Before the World Championships, BAM informed us that they required professional players not to wear sportswear brands other than BAM's sponsor if they wanted to train together on Wednesdays.

"I am extremely surprised by this rule because it is enforced during our preparations for the World Championships.

"Since December of last year, BAM invited Zii Jia to train with BAM-affiliated players every Wednesday, and we were delighted because we achieved a win-win situation, including helping BAM players improve their level.

"The sponsorship conflict is not only BAM's consideration, it also involves our team. Zii Jia, as well as our lineup of coaches, fitness experts, and physiotherapists. Due to these factors, we are unable to attend training at BAM before going to Denmark," he said.

Currently, BAM is sponsored by the leading sports equipment company, Yonex, while Zii Jia signed a sponsorship contract with Victor after leaving the national body to move professionally earlier this year.