Zii Jia gambles on home court to smash ranking slide

KUALA LUMPUR: Shuttler Lee Zii Jia is taking a "calculated risk" by returning from injury at the Malaysia Open to revive his world ranking before his protected status expires next month.

The independent shuttler, currently ranked world No. 144, said he needs to compete now to avoid falling further down the ladder once his injury-protected ranking of world No. 9 ends in February.

"Haven't seen three digits in a long time. The protected ranking ends in February, and that's why I have to come back," said Zii Jia after a training session at the Axiata Arena on Sunday.

Zii Jia, who has been recovering from right ankle and back injuries, said there is pressure to perform at the Super 1000 event to secure enough points to return to the top 15 by year-end.

"If not, I don't know where I have to end up playing. The ranking has dropped a lot already. There are a lot of points up for grabs at the Malaysia Open, so whether I like it or not, I have to come out for tournaments," he said.

He added that his target is to stabilise his position before the Olympic qualification period begins next year.

Despite his current low ranking, Zii Jia said he does not consider himself an underdog for the home tournament.

"I feel there isn't much difference. Since this event is at home, there is definitely some pressure there, but I will do my best," he said, adding that staying healthy remained his priority after an injury-plagued previous year.

Zii Jia moved comfortably on court during training and is scheduled to compete in the India Open, Indonesia Masters, and Thailand Masters following his home campaign.