It seems that Malaysia is set to lose yet another sports legend in the form of Dato’ Lee Chong Wei after he admitted to New Straits Times that he received several coaching offers from several Asian countries including Singapore.
No decision has been made yet. However, I have been in discussion with some of them. Badminton runs in my blood, and it is still the sport I love. Who knows?
Rumours of Chong Wei possibly accepting Singapore’s offer has been rife in recent days following an advert searching for a coach for its men’s single’s team earlier this year.
However, the former World No.1 remained mum on whose offer he would accept, emphasising that his main priority is his family.
“My No. 1 priority is my family. Right now, I am very happy with where I am, and that is very important.
“Since retiring, I have been focused on my business, and I am in no rush for anything. Life is meant to be enjoyed,” he said.
Misbun Sidek: ‘Go on ahead’
While the news may be a blow to many local fans, Chong Wei’s ex-coach Misbun Sidek took a more optimistic view on the matter, saying that he should go abroad instead of remaining in Malaysia.
“By coaching abroad, he would command respect from his employer and players there. When you get the respect, it breeds confidence in you to carry out your duty well.
If he starts here (in the national team), he will be judged on his coaching style, and people will start comparing him with the existing coaches. That’s my thought.
When asked whether his former protégé could become an excellent coach, Misbun said that it remains to be seen.
“I can’t be sure about that, but for a start, he can absolutely be an excellent game analyzer. Being a top player himself, that’s his forte.
“To be a full-fledged coach, he needs time and more (coaching) experience. As a coach, you need to develop your player to excel physically, mentally, tactically and technically,” he said.
If Chong Wei were to leave for another country’s team, he would join the ranks of several coaches who are currently serving abroad such as Jeremy Gan, Lee Wan Wah (Japan), Wong Tat Meng (South Korea), Tan Kim Her (India), Yap Kim Hock, Wong Pei Tty (Singapore) and Rosman Razak (Philippines).
Cover images via Perimbun Ilmu and Daily Express
