Malaysian shuttler Lee Zii Jia loses in first round of Malaysia Open, admitting he is only at 50-60% fitness after a 111-day break from competition.
KUALA LUMPUR: Professional shuttler Lee Zii Jia’s competitive return ended in disappointment at the Malaysia Open 2026.
The former All-England champion was defeated 12-21, 17-21 by India’s Ayush Shetty in a 39-minute first-round match at Axiata Arena.
Lee admitted he was far from his best after a 111-day absence from the tour.
“From what you could see today, I’m definitely not at 100 per cent yet,” he told reporters.
“I’d say maybe around 50 to 60 per cent.”
He acknowledged his opponent’s quality, describing Shetty as an upcoming rising star with strong results last year.
Lee believed he had tried his best, particularly after making tactical adjustments in the second game.
“But physically, I’m still not 100 per cent,” he said.
“You can see that it’s not quite there yet, I’m not fit enough at the moment.”
The 28-year-old said his reflexes on court seemed slower than usual.
He struck a positive tone by thanking local fans for their strong support, which he said he had missed.
Lee is now determined to perform better at the upcoming India Open and Indonesia Masters.
He currently holds a protected ranking of world number 8, allowing him entry to major tournaments.
Lee is attempting a comeback after withdrawing from the 2025 China Masters last September.
He took time off for rehabilitation due to back and ankle injuries.
