Macau Open 2026: Lee Zii Jia Suffers Early Exit Again

Malaysian badminton star Lee Zii Jia endured a disappointing first-round exit at the SANDS CHINA LTD. Macau Open 2026, falling in straight games to Indonesia’s P. Bagas Shujiwo as Malaysia experienced mixed fortunes during the Round of 32 at the Macao East Asian Games Dome.

The defeat marked one of the biggest surprises involving the Malaysian contingent on Wednesday, with Lee unable to find his rhythm against the seventh-seeded Indonesian despite showing signs of a late fightback in the second game.

Entering the tournament with hopes of building momentum on the HSBC BWF World Tour, Lee was put under pressure from the outset by Bagas, who dominated the opening game 21-12.

The former All England champion responded strongly in the second game and pushed his opponent all the way, but crucial points at the closing stages went the Indonesian’s way as Lee eventually bowed out 12-21, 20-22.

The early elimination represents a setback for the Malaysian ace, who will now turn his attention to upcoming tournaments as he continues his preparations for the second half of the 2026 season.

While Lee’s campaign came to an abrupt end, fellow Malaysian Huan Kai Hern emerged as one of the day’s standout performers.

Fresh from progressing through the qualifying rounds, Huan fought back from a game down to defeat Israel’s Misha Zilberman 13-21, 21-11, 21-9 and secure a place in the Round of 16.

National teammate Cheam June Wei also produced a comeback victory, overcoming Macau’s Pui Pang Fong 14-21, 21-15, 21-11.

Another notable result came from Eogene Ewe, who upset sixth seed Jason Gunawan of Hong Kong in a thrilling three-game encounter, winning 21-16, 14-21, 21-19.

However, Aidil Sholeh was unable to overcome top seed Angus Ng Ka Long of Hong Kong, while Justin Hoh and Kok Jing Hong also exited the competition.

Malaysia’s challenge in the women’s singles received a boost through Goh Jin Wei, who comfortably defeated Indonesia’s Ni Kadek Dhinda Ampratiwi 21-13, 21-16.

Former national player Kisona Selvaduray, however, suffered a narrow defeat against India’s Rakshitha S. Ramraj despite a spirited effort in the second game.

The men’s doubles contingent enjoyed a productive outing with top seeds Azriyn Ayub and Tan Wee Kiong, Choi Sol Gyu and Goh V Shem, Low Hang Yee and Ng Eng Cheong, and Chia Wei Jie and Teo Ee Yi all advancing to the Round of 16.

In mixed doubles, experienced pair Hoo Pang Ron and Lai Pei Jing impressed with a straight-games victory over third-seeded compatriots Wong Tien Ci and Lim Chiew Sien.

Malaysia also celebrated wins through Low Han Chen and Chan Wen Tse, as well as Liew Xun and Ho Lo Ee, ensuring continued representation in the discipline.