National shuttler Lee Chong Wei has finally broken his silence regarding Zulfadli Zulkiffli, stating that the youngster should consider playing under Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM).
The former world no. 1 feels that Zulfadli will be unable to develop his talent and skills if he continues to train by himself and the BAM move will be perfect for his career since he is still in his early 20’s.
“If he joins BAM, his level of performances will increase because he will have a sparring partner, besides having proper training facilities as a team.”
“There is a high possibility that he won’t progress much on his own. I see the talent in him and with BAM, he will definitely improve it. Having said that, it’s all up to him to make a decision,” Chong Wei told Utusan, when met in KLIA after returning to the country from the World Championships.
Chong Wei also added that if Zulfadli remains a free agent, it will be tough for him to match the level of performances of other players who are of the same age, for instance Viktor Axelsen from Denmark and Kento Momota.
Zulfadli claimed the 2011 World Youth Championships by defeating the Danish, but Axelsen has since grown into a world class player, collecting titles along the way and reaching the world no.7 spot. On the other hand, Zulfadli is still struggling in a mere 38th place in the world rankings.
“That was four years ago, he has to focus on his future now. Momota from Japan is 20-years-old but he is already the 4th best player in the world. We have to look forward in his career, instead of rejoicing on past victories,” said Chong Wei.
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