International Shuttler Slams BAM For Decision To Ban LZJ, Goh Jin Wei From Competing

The announcement made by BAM Deputy President Jaharbedeen Mohd Yunoos to ban registrations of national No.1 Lee Zii Jia and recently-turned professional Goh Jin Wei for a period of two years from entering all Badminton World Federation-sanctioned tournaments have created a storm in the Badminton world.

With former shuttlers like Roslin Hashim slamming BAM for the absurd decision, international players have also stepped up to the plate in defense of our professional badminton players.

Taking to Facebook, here is what Danish badminton star Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus has to say.

“(This is) Another mind-blowing moment in our sport today – and unfortunately not in a good way.”

Speaking about BAM’s refusal to allow Lee Zii Jia and Goh Jin Wei to participate in any international tournament for two years, Vittinghus writes that their crime was nothing more than choosing to follow their own path.

“They want to follow their own path. Choose their own coaches, their own training set up, their own tournament schedule, do their own sponsorship deals, etc.”

“Basically, they want to make a living for themselves playing badminton professionally. Honestly, how is that a crime?”

“They are Malaysians, they are brilliant badminton players, they are great characters and they just want to play badminton.”

“But for two years, they won’t be able to do so, because our rules in the sport allow for this kind of insanity decided by the Malaysian badminton association today.”

Vittinghus also outlined that under BWF rules, all entries must go through a national body, and if you are refused entry, there is one of three options, which include:

1. Accepting the decision, give up your passion and find a new job.
2. Move to a different country, reside for 12 months and start competing. This would mean that you may compete under a new flag.
3. Take it to the courts.

“For these players personally, it is obviously a huge blow. It is a huge loss for the sport in Malaysia and globally too. Lee Zii Jia is one of our most marketable athletes, well behaved, competing for the biggest titles in the world.”

Vittinghus mentions that it is no longer viable for the world federation to decide who can or cannot enter open tournaments.

“I really do hope BWF soon realises that this is not feasible for the future.”

National shuttler Lee Zii Jia will not be able to register for all Badminton World Federation-sanctioned tournaments for two years beginning January 18; while Goh Jin Wei will be banned from registering starting October 31.

Also read: JUST IN: Lee Zii Jia Banned From International Tournaments For 2 Years