KUALA LUMPUR – Independent men’s singles shuttler Lee Zii Jia will miss next month’s Sudirman Cup after successfully applying for a protected ranking under the Badminton World Federation (BWF), ruling him out of competition for at least three months.
Under BWF regulations, players granted a protected ranking cannot compete for a minimum of three months and up to a maximum of 12 months, or until they notify BWF of their return.
The protected ranking period begins once approval is granted, making Zii Jia ineligible for the Sudirman Cup, which takes place from April 27 to May 4 in Xiamen, China.
Confirming the decision, Team LZJ said in a statement today: “After careful consideration and advice from relevant parties, including medical experts, Team LZJ has successfully applied for Lee Zii Jia’s ranking protection under the Badminton World Federation (BWF).”
Official Statement.
— Team LZJ (@TeamLZJ) March 24, 2025
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The world number nine has been struggling with an ankle injury sustained at the World Tour Finals in December and recently withdrew from next month’s Badminton Asia Championships in Ningbo, China.
His first-round exit at the All England a fortnight ago further highlighted his fitness struggles.
“This is to allow Zii Jia to continue in his recovery from a right ankle injury and will miss the forthcoming tournaments, including the Badminton Asia Championships,” Team LZJ added.
With his absence confirmed, Malaysia’s coaching team must now finalise a new men’s singles lineup, with Leong Jun Hao and Justin Hoh the likely candidates.
Malaysia reached the Sudirman Cup semi-finals in 2021 but fell in the quarter-finals in 2023, and will now face another tough campaign without their top-ranked men’s singles player.
“Rest assured, we are doing our best to aid Zii Jia in his rehabilitation and training programme. His return to competitive on-court action will depend on his recovery,” Team LZJ stated.
Under BWF rules, Zii Jia can only return to competition once he notifies the governing body.
Upon his comeback, he will be allowed to use his protected ranking for the same duration as his absence, up to six months.
However, he cannot apply for another protected ranking for at least two years after resuming competition. — March 24, 2025