PETALING JAYA (ANN/THE STAR) – Former international Datuk Rashid Saiduk believes pulling Ng Tze Yong from the Asian Championships may have saved his career. Despite missing out on the opportunity to compete at the Paris Olympics, Rashid prioritized Tse Yong's long-term health, concerned that rushing into the competition could worsen his back injury. are doing.
Yesterday, Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) national coaching director Lexi Mainakee said surgeons, physiotherapists and coaches Tse Yong had come to the conclusion that it was best for the world No. 18 player to miss the tournament. He said he did.
Rashid warned that it is almost impossible to recover within a few weeks from back surgery and that Tse Yong should be given enough time to strengthen his back.
In fact, the former great said Tse Yong should only return when he is physically and mentally ready for Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour events.
“Of course, missing out on the Olympics is a big disappointment for an athlete, but Tse Yong is putting his career at risk by returning to competition too soon. He could always aim for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, but , if the injury occurs again, his career will be over,'' Rashid said.
“When an athlete undergoes back surgery, they require a longer period of treatment and rehabilitation, as even a minor accident can cause irreparable damage.
“The Asian Games will not be easy. Tse Yong had to fight against tough opponents and could have risked worsening her condition.
“The biggest fear is that if he suffers another back injury during the tournament, he may be forced to retire early.
“Let him fully recover and take his time to come back. If you need that much time, it will take three or four months.
“He is only 23 years old. If he stays in shape and doesn't give up, Tse Yong will definitely qualify for the 2028 Olympics.”
If Tse Yong follows the advice and takes more time to heal, he will also have to miss the Thomas Cup final, which will be held in Chengdu, China, from April 26 to May 5.
Rashid hopes BAM does not take the gamble of fielding Tse Yong in the final.
“There aren't many options in singles and BAM might want to include him in the Thomas Cup squad, but that would be a gamble,” Rashid added.
“If it's a knee or ankle injury, it's still manageable, but with a back injury, you can't take any chances.
“If Tse Yong doesn't take care of himself, this injury could haunt him after he retires and it could affect his life.
“We want the best for him, but we also have to be careful not to lose a quality player to injury.”
Tse Yong was shocked to have to miss the Asian Championships, but vowed to make a strong comeback.
“I would like to focus on my rehabilitation so that I can come back stronger. I am looking forward to returning to the court as soon as possible so that I can contribute to the team in the future,” Tse Yong said.
BAM may not need to be reminded that Tse Yong aggravated a back injury while competing in the Asian Badminton Team Championships in Shah Alam last month, ultimately requiring surgery.
There will always be a temptation to use Tse Yong's services at the Thomas Cup, but it would be a good thing for him if he doesn't play in this year's majors.
