Kuala Lumpur: National men’s singles shuttler Ng Tze Yong has been advised to seek support and not go through his recovery journey alone, following confirmation that he will undergo surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. National singles coaching director Kenneth Jonassen emphasized the importance of reaching out for help, highlighting that it is not a sign of weakness.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jonassen expressed that while Tze Yong is mentally strong, acknowledging the need for assistance is crucial. “At the end of the day, it comes down to the athlete. Please always ask for help. When you’re there, you’re not on your own. But sometimes it can feel that you’re there on your own with your own issue and those things. Do reach out,” Jonassen stated during a training session. He reassured that support would be available throughout Tze Yong’s recovery.

The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) confirmed on Friday that Tze Yong, 25, was forced to retire from his opening-round match against Hong Kong’s Angus Ng Ka Long at the Malaysia Masters last month due to knee pain. A thorough medical examination and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have since confirmed a torn ACL, necessitating surgical intervention.

Despite the setback, Tze Yong remains optimistic and committed to his rehabilitation journey, as mentioned in the same statement. Jonassen stressed the importance of focusing on the recovery process one step at a time for the 2022 Commonwealth Games men’s singles silver medallist. “Of course, it takes a strong character to want to come back, and that’s why I believe he has the ability to do so,” he added.

Previously, Tze Yong has endured various injuries, including a muscle tear in his back and a spinal injury last year. He underwent an extended period of rest and rehabilitation before making his return at the Badminton Asia Championship 2025 in Ningbo, China, in April.