KUALA LUMPUR – Local badminton legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei believes Malaysia will miss the expertise of world-class coach Hendrawan, whose contract has not been renewed by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
After 15 years of serving as the national men’s singles coach, the Indonesian former world champion will officially bid farewell on October 31, despite his contract ending in December.
Speaking to Scoop, Chong Wei expressed his surprise at BAM’s decision to part ways with Hendrawan but refrained from interfering in the matter.
“I only learned about this earlier today. I am deeply saddened, not just because he’s a dear friend, but because of his immense contribution to our men’s singles department.
“People may argue that Hendrawan hasn’t delivered significant results over the last 15 years, and I understand that. However, perhaps with more time to nurture his players, he could have achieved more.
“Even with me, Hendrawan was only my coach for about three and a half years. Yet, both he and Datuk Tey Seu Bock guided me to an Olympic silver in Rio de Janeiro,” said Chong Wei, a three-time Olympic silver medallist.
The 42-year-old retired shuttler described Hendrawan as a man of few words.
“Those who follow the sport know that Hendrawan maintains a low profile. He avoids making unnecessary comments but remains incredibly committed and hardworking.
“I don’t know whose decision this was, nor do I wish to question BAM, but Malaysia will undoubtedly miss the services of a world-class coach.
“I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to a coach who has done so much for me and Malaysian badminton. Hendrawan has no need to worry; many will be eager to have him,” added Chong Wei, who will always remember Hendrawan as the coach who stood by him after his eight-month doping suspension in 2015.
In addition to Hendrawan, BAM will also part ways with junior singles coach Ameer Amri Zainuddin, as they announced a coaching structure revamp today.
BAM has yet to finalise the names of the coaches they intend to hire for the roles of singles head coaches and the women’s doubles head coach. — October 1, 2024