Malaysia’s men’s singles campaign at the PRINCESS SIRIVANNAVARI Thailand Masters 2026 came to a painful end on Friday after Lee Zii Jia was forced to retire mid-match in his quarter-final clash against Indonesia’s rising star Alwi Farhan.
The setback marks another difficult chapter in what has been an emotional comeback stretch for the former world No. 2, who has been working his way back to full fitness following an injury-hit 2025 season.
Competing in his fourth consecutive tournament since returning to the circuit, Zii Jia looked sharp and confident early at Bangkok’s Nimibutr Stadium.
Facing the in-form Alwi — fresh off winning the Indonesia Masters — the Malaysian produced one of his best performances in months, storming through the opening game with authority: Lee Zii Jia bt. Alwi Farhan 21-10 (Game 1)
His movement, timing, and attacking rhythm suggested he was on course for a statement win — and potentially his first semi-final appearance since the Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medal run.
However, momentum turned dramatically in the second set with the score at 15-17, Zii Jia slipped while attempting to retrieve a shuttle and immediately called for medical attention.
Although he bravely continued, the discomfort was visible, and his ability to move freely around the court was clearly compromised.
Alwi took advantage, winning the second game 21-15, before Zii Jia made the difficult decision to retire from the match.
With Zii Jia’s withdrawal, Malaysia’s hopes in the men’s singles draw at the Thailand Masters are officially over — leaving the national camp once again waiting for clarity on his condition and recovery timeline.
Credit Photo : BAT
