National badminton great Datuk Seri Lee Chong Wei has officially launched the inaugural Lee Chong Wei Cup, a new event designed to spotlight and develop Malaysia’s top young shuttlers aged between 13 and 17. This tournament marks one of Lee’s biggest contributions to the sport since retiring and reflects his desire to give back and strengthen grassroots badminton in the country.
The competition will feature three age categories: Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17. Across these groups, players will compete in singles and doubles disciplines, including a mixed doubles event for the Under-17 age group.
Organisers expect approximately 3,200 players to enter the qualifying rounds, with 32 successful competitors from each category moving on to the Grand Finals alongside state-selected athletes. A total prize pool of RM100,000 has been announced, making this one of the most substantial youth badminton events in Malaysia.
In addition to prize money, winners in each category will receive the chance to train with the national squad at the Academy Badminton Malaysia in Bukit Kiara. This opportunity is aimed at providing promising juniors with exposure to elite coaching and preparation for future international competition.
Source: Malay Mail
Chong Wei, who now serves as chairman of the Badminton Association of Malaysia’s performance committee, said the event has been a long-held ambition. He noted that junior players in Malaysia currently have limited competitive opportunities, and the LCW Cup aims to fill this gap while encouraging young athletes to pursue sport rather than spending time on less productive activities.
The tournament’s exact dates and scoring format are still being finalised, as organisers await the outcome of the Badminton World Federation’s annual meeting, which could influence scoring rules.
Badminton Association of Malaysia president Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz emphasised that the event will help grow the sport’s grassroots base and provide fair, structured competition for young players.
Overall, the Lee Chong Wei Cup aims to be a cornerstone event in Malaysia’s junior badminton calendar and a platform to uncover the next generation of champions.
