KUALA LUMPUR – Ed Sheeran’s recent visit to Malaysia was not just about captivating audiences with his musical prowess at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, he also found time for some unexpected offstage adventures – including a friendly badminton match with national shuttler Chan Peng Soon.
The British pop sensation shared glimpses of his pre-concert escapades on his social media, offering fans a peek into his diverse interests.
Before his rendezvous with the Olympic athlete, Sheeran indulged in batik painting, an activity involving a beloved pastime of his.
“I love painting at home. Whilst out in Malaysia, I wanted to try some traditional batik and do some wax painting,” he shared, hinting at possibly adorning his pub with his artwork.
Not one to shy away from local experiences, the 33-year-old singer also visited one of Malaysia’s oldest barber shops, established in 1937, for a clean shave, and even picked up some flowers along the way.
However, it was Sheeran’s get-together with badminton royalty that truly captured attention.
Joined by Malaysian media personalities Jinny Boy and Joseph Lee, Sheeran faced off against Peng Soon in a light-hearted badminton match.
“Badminton is huge in Malaysia, but I had to call in some reinforcements,” quipped the Grammy winner, acknowledging the sport’s immense popularity in the country.
With Sheeran, Jinny Boy, and Joseph teaming up against the three-time Commonwealth gold medalist, the stage was set for an entertaining showdown.
“Since the three of us here are not national players, it’ll be three against one,” joked Joseph in the footage shared by Sheeran.
As Sheeran continues his musical journey with “The Mathematics Tour,” his next stop in Jakarta on March 2 promises to be another memorable affair, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter of his adventures on and offstage. – February 26, 2024