The badminton community is in mourning following the sudden demise of former Malaysian badminton star, Gan Teik Chai, on 4 August 2023.
Gan Teik Chai passes away
At the age of 40, Gan suffered a heart attack in Surabaya, Indonesia.
Having partnered with notable players such as Tan Bin Shen and Koo Kien Keat, Gan left an indelible mark in the realm of men’s doubles. His prowess on the court was evident, with a career-best world ranking of 12th.
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) also conveyed their deep condolences, reflecting on Gan’s impressive feats which include victories at the French International in 2004 and the Australian Open in 2009.
“The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is deeply saddened to learn of the loss of former national doubles player Gan Teik Chai who has passed away at the age of 40,” it wrote.
REST IN PEACE, TEIK CHAI
— BAM (@BA_Malaysia) August 5, 2023
The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) is deeply saddened to learn of the loss of former national doubles player Gan Teik Chai who has passed away at the age of 40. pic.twitter.com/PEjCjIbT7z
Datuk Lee Chong Wei pens touching letter to Gan Teik Chai
Among the many voices echoing the shock of Gan’s untimely passing was Malaysian badminton legend, Datuk Lee Chong Wei.
Chong Wei and Gan’s friendship stretched back to when they were 12 years old. The duo had grown through classes, training, and tournaments, forming a bond filled with joy, laughter, and mutual respect.
Reminiscing about their plans to play together the following week, Chong Wei also took to his social media to pay his tribute.
It is with a heavy and sad heart that I share the news of the passing of my close buddy, Gan Teik Chai who I address as Ah Gan.
Words cannot express the deep sorrow and grief that I am feeling right now. I’m replaying again and again, the voice message he just left behind, agreeing with me to join me on court next week.
Now the next game with Ah Gan will never materializes.
“Losing someone so special is never easy, and the pain we feel is unimaginable. But let us remember Ah Gan for the incredible person he was and the lasting impact he had on our lives,” Chong Wei wrote in a lengthy post.
Bin Shen: I couldn’t accept it
Reflecting on their journey together, Bin Shen also took to his Facebook to share his thoughts.
When I heard this news, I really couldn’t accept it. We trained together since we were 16, shared our lives, and eventually became partners in competitions.
The scenes of our training and competitions, every little detail of our lives together, all flashed through my mind.
Thank you for leaving us, a group of good friends, with such beautiful memories that we will forever cherish in our hearts.
Rest in peace, brother 🙏
Condolences to Gan’s family.
