Lee Zii Jia has been dealt a blow after being not just ruled out of the upcoming Malaysia Open next week, but he may be forced to sit on the sidelines beyond that.
Team LZJ announced that the world number six would miss the 2025 season opener on home soil after he suffered a right ankle ligament injury at last month’s World Tour Finals (WTF).
While Lee would be disappointed to miss out playing in front of his home fans, the Kedahan could also be absent for the upcoming two events after the Malaysia Open.
“His participation for the India Open and Indonesia Masters in January 2025 are also under consideration, pending his full recovery,” read the statement from Team LZJ.
The India Open (Jan 14-19) and Indonesia Masters (Jan 21-26) are both scheduled right after the Axiata Arena spectacle, which may not be the ideal situation for Lee to rush back to action.
To add to his frustrations, the Paris Olympics bronze medalist will also have to wait longer before starting work with his new coach Yeoh Kay Bin who recently replaced Wong Tat Meng.
The Thailand Masters (Jan 28-Feb 2) will complete a busy January for all the top-tier players.
Malaysia Open defending champion Anders Antonsen, meanwhile, said he felt for Lee.
“It’s a shame. I’m sure he would have loved to play on his homesoil. He got injured at the WTF when he had already advanced to the semi-finals. He was playing well and seemed motivated. I wish him a speedy recovery,” said the Dane.
The Malaysia Open begins from Jan 7-12.
