Datuk Wira Lee Chong Wei, a retired Malaysian men’s singles badminton player, has achieved triple silver medals at the Olympic Games, marking him as the sixth Malaysian to win an Olympic medal. His first silver in Beijing 2008 was historic as it was Malaysia’s first finals appearance in men’s singles. This achievement earned him the honorific title of Datuk, and he was hailed as a national hero by then Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. Chong Wei went on to secure silver medals again in London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro 2016, establishing himself as Malaysia’s most successful Olympian. He announced his retirement on June 13, 2019, due to health challenges following a battle with nose cancer.
“I genuinely hope that a Malaysian athlete can win the country’s first gold medal. It doesn’t matter who it is; I will always support them, as will all 33 million Malaysians.”
“We have waited too long to see a Malaysian athlete win an Olympic gold.”
“Perhaps Lee Zii Jia (badminton), Aaron Chia-Soh Wooi Yik (badminton), Azizulhasni Awang (track cycling), Pearly Tan-M Thinaah (badminton)… we don’t know.”
“Maybe we can bring home more than one gold.”
“What’s most important now is that we, as Malaysians, need to support the athletes and back their efforts in Paris,” Chong Wei told BH Sports.
Chong Wei emphasized that his record as Malaysia’s top Olympic athlete was less important than the collective achievement of winning a gold medal for the country.
“Records are personal achievements, but what is more important and meaningful is success for the country. It would be the most beautiful moment if we could share this success with the entire nation. I hope the athletes will focus on fighting for the country and not just for personal glory,” said Chong Wei.
The Olympic Games will officially open with an opening ceremony on Friday, July 26, 2024.
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