KUALA LUMPUR – The fate of Ng Tze Yong in the coming Thomas Cup in Chengdu, China, starting on April 28, hangs in uncertainty once more.
Akademi Badminton Malaysia coaching director, Rexy Mainaky, has revealed that the men’s singles shuttler must undergo another MRI scan today to assess his physical condition.
However, Rexy remains unsure whether Tze Yong’s current injury is a recurrence of his previous back injury.
“This morning, (national men’s singles coach) Hendrawan informed me that Tze Yong will undergo another MRI scan.
“I’ll confer with the management regarding Tze Yong’s eligibility for the Thomas Cup, contingent upon his current state of fitness.
“Ultimately, it hinges on his readiness, as the management and coaches have exerted their utmost efforts. Hence, the decision lies with the player.
“It’s imperative that the player himself confirms his willingness to compete. Otherwise, all parties, including the higher-ups, will be left in limbo, as it’s ultimately the player who executes the duty, not the management or coaches.
“As of now, I cannot definitively rule out his participation in the Thomas Cup until we receive the MRI report and gather further information,” said Rexy.
Rexy also clarified that Tze Yong was initially included in the Thomas Cup squad due to his expressed desire to take part in the tournament.
Rexy has enlisted a total of five men’s singles players and five men’s doubles players for the Thomas Cup.
Consequently, if Tze Yong is unable to join the team in Chengdu, the national coaching staff will need to deliberate on a suitable replacement for the 24-year-old.
“During our recent meeting, his coach (Hendrawan) revealed that Tze Yong himself is eager to play. Hendrawan indicated that even the doctor at the National Sports Institute is uncertain about Tze Yong’s current condition.
“If we consider the remaining players, Eogene (Ewe) appears to be a qualified candidate, yet everything remains unresolved,” Rexy added. – April 16, 2024