Lee Zii Jia revealed his admiration for the late Kobe Bryant and his never-give-up mentality that propelled the LA Lakers legend as one of the all-time greats whose dedication and work ethic inspired millions of athletes around the world.

The Malaysian singles ace said he adopted that mentality into his game as he continued his quest to become a top 10 player and be known as his own man rather than be talked up as Lee Chong Wei’s successor.

"I hope people will look at me as myself and not as Chong Wei’s replacement. It was different when I was younger, but I have some results to show for myself and would like to be known for that.

"Kobe's 'Black Mamba' mantra to never give up is something I try to abide by. I used to watch him a lot," Zii Jia told Stadium Astro.

Bryant was killed in a helicopter crash on January 26 along with his daughter Gianna and seven others.



Men's doubles shuttler Goh V Shem, who will join the national team to prepare for the Thomas Cup in October, believes the country will have a better chance at the upcoming tournament with Zii Jia leading the way.

"He is playing with confidence now, and our team’s standard has improved with him playing as the first singles [shuttler]," said Goh.

Following a three-month COVID-19 lockdown, Zii Jia and several Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) shuttlers returned to training in June.

The 22-year-old may have to wait a little longer to start featuring on the international scene but could be in for some much needed competitive action as the national body are scheduled to organise an internal meet.

Zii Jia will also get more sparring partners, with independent shuttlers Liew Daren and Soong Joo Ven expected to join the BAM's training later this week.

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