KUALA LUMPUR: Former world No 1 Lee Chong Wei has praised shuttler Leong Jun Hao for his remarkable run at the Kumamoto Masters in Japan.
World No. 31 Jun Hao stunned the badminton world by defeating a string of higher-ranked players, including Lakshya Sen (world No. 17 — first round), Koki Watanabe (No. 11 — second round), Kodai Naraoka (No. 4 — quarter-finals) and Jonatan Christie (No. 6 — semi-finals).
However, his Cinderella story came to an end in the final, where he lost 21-10, 21-13 to China's Asian Games champion Li Shi Feng today.
Chong Wei believes Jun Hao's stellar performance could mark the beginning of greater achievements for the 25-year-old.
"I watched Jun Hao's incredible performances in Japan, and he was truly impressive," Chong Wei shared on Instagram.
"He showed great fighting spirit and determination in every round, inspiring everyone, including myself.
"Keep believing in yourself, stay strong, and never stop chasing your dreams. Malaysia is behind you all the way."
Despite falling short in the final, the Setapak-born shuttler has plenty to be proud of, pocketing US$15,960 (RM71,350) for his maiden Super 500 final appearance.
Former national player Datuk James Selvaraj also commended Jun Hao's campaign at the Kumamoto Masters.
"Jun Hao has the potential, and he played exceptionally well to beat four top-20 players in the tournament," said James.
"He must maintain this momentum and elevate his game further. He needs to show that his performance in Japan was no fluke."
Looking ahead, Jun Hao will play at the China Masters next week, where he faces Japan's World No. 33 Takuma Obayashi in the opening round.