Lee Chong Wei's participation at the 2018 BWF World Championship in Nanjing, China, is suddenly in doubt.
The Malaysian shuttler, who would face Brice Leverdez in the first round, failed to show up for training at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Jalil for the past week.
His absence raised suspicions of an injury, but there was no official confirmation from the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) whether or not he would withdraw from the World Championships, especially with the 2018 Asian Games on the horizon.
When asked by the media, national men's head coach Misbun Sidek said he was aware that Lee requested for a break after the Malaysian Open and Indonesian Open but did not expect him to be away for longer than expected.
"It is out of the ordinary. He previously rested for a long period once, which was for his muscle recovery process," Misbun commented on his absence.
"From what I can see, he does not want to be disturbed and just wants to rest.
"I suggest we wait for the BAM to make an announcement, if any. Maybe he has a lot of leave days remaining, so let's just let him rest."
Seng Foo Lee
Tue Jul 24 2018
Wembanyama named NBA Rookie of Year
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama was a unanimous choice as the NBA's Rookie of the Year, the league announced Monday.
'I will keep fighting' - Ten Hag adamant he is the right manager for Man Utd
Ten Hag adamant he is right manager
Man Utd thrashing a 'big statement' but Palace are not surprised, says Eze
Eze: Man Utd trashing 'says a lot'
Udinese 1-1 Napoli: Struggling Bianconeri grab last-gasp home draw
Report: Udinese 1-1 Napoli
Crystal Palace 4-0 Manchester United: Olise stars as Eagles soar to thumping victory
Michael Olise was at the double as Crystal Palace thrashed Manchester United 4-0 in Monday's Premier League encounter at Selhurst Park.
Al Ahli 1-2 Al Hilal: Malcom saves league leaders' winning streak
Report: Al Ahli 1-2 Al Hilal
Terzic: Dortmund must improve on last week's performance to win at PSG
Terzic: Dortmund need improvement
Carragher: Moyes leaving West Ham 'a great decision for everybody'
Moyes departure the right call
IPL: Yadav century ends Mumbai's losing streak in style
IPL: Yadav stars for MI
Moyes to leave West Ham at end of season
Moyes to leave West Ham