Pain-free Tze Yong stays realistic as comeback dream gathers pace [WATCH]

KUALA LUMPUR: Ng Tze Yong is raring to resume full-time daily training after passing a crucial physical test in the coming weeks, with the Malaysian shuttler still dreaming of a return to the World Tour later this year.

The 25-year-old, who underwent surgery on his right anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in Doha in July last year, is encouraged by his steady recovery and says he is now pain-free.

Tze Yong has begun occasional full on-court sessions and believes consistency will be key as he edges closer to a full return.

"I feel the progress is very good because there is no pain or anything like that," said Tze Yong after a light court workout at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) on Tuesday.

"Right now, I come in for one day and then stay off-court for a few days, so I feel I need to be more consistent.

"There is one more test in a few weeks. If everything is fine, then maybe I will return to almost full training."

The test, he explained, will assess the balance and strength between his left and right legs — a critical step before being cleared for heavier workloads.

"It tests the balance of my muscles on my left and right legs. If there is a difference in strength, it can be a bit dangerous.

"I have also started jumping, but for now my jumping is still a bit limited."

Tze Yong admitted that this injury layoff has been mentally easier to manage compared to his first major setback, when a back injury at the 2024 Malaysia Open sidelined him for 13 months and required two surgeries.

"That injury was tougher because it was my first one, and I didn't really know how to control my emotions," he said.

"I had so much time and didn't know what to do. I couldn't train and I kept overthinking.

"But now, since this is my second injury, I'm more used to it. As for my back, there are no problems — it doesn't hurt anymore."

The Johor Bahru-born shuttler also revealed that he has gained a few kilogrammes during rehabilitation but insists it has been beneficial.

"My weight has gone up, but there's no need to lose it — it's muscle," he said.

"I'm heavier, but I have more energy."

While he admits to missing the buzz of World Tour tournaments, Tze Yong stressed that he is in no rush to return prematurely.

"I miss the fans and the tournament atmosphere, but right now I will stick to what I can do," he said.

"I feel there is a chance for a return, but it depends. The coach needs to look at my condition.

"It's not a one-man decision. I have to discuss it with the coach and physio, and I'm staying optimistic."

The upcoming full training block, pending clearance from the final test, will offer a clearer picture of his comeback timeline, but Tze Yong remains grounded.

"We need to see if my training is consistent and whether there is any reaction from my knee," he added.

"It might just take a bit of time.

"Self-motivation is the most important thing. I keep trying. If I really can't play, at least I won't regret it — at least I tried."