KUALA LUMPUR: Will men's singles shuttler Ng Tze Yong ever return to competitive badminton?
National coaching director Rexy Mainaky has revealed that while Tze Yong has resumed training, he has yet to overcome the trauma of suffering two back injuries, which have kept him out of action for the last 11 months.
The 24-year-old first suffered the injury at the Malaysia Open last year, and it recurred during the Asian Team Championships in Shah Alam a month later.
Following two back surgeries, Tze Yong has seen his world ranking plummet from No. 16 to No. 202 due to his prolonged absence from international tournaments.
Rexy confirmed that recent medical tests indicate Tze Yong has fully recovered, but the player remains haunted by fears of reinjury.
As a precaution, the BA of Malaysia (BAM) has withdrawn him from the Malaysia Open next week and the India Open on Jan 14-19.
"Tze Yong has recovered, but he is still traumatised by his back injuries. The fear of hurting his back again is delaying his return to competition," said Rexy.
"This is why we have pulled him out of the Malaysia Open and the India Open.
"Based on reports and feedback from his coach, K. Yogendran, he is physically ready.
"However, he keeps complaining of minor niggles in his legs and worrying they might be caused by his back condition.
"This is natural after what he has gone through, but Tze Yong needs to be like a soldier — he must face the battlefield and take real shots.
"Competing in tournaments and taking on opponents will help him overcome his fear and regain confidence.
"We are hopeful he can return to competition soon and show the courage to move past his trauma."
Rexy also suggested that psychological support could be crucial for Tze Yong's recovery.
"Tze Yong must take the first step to overcome this setback, and we need to find the right psychologist to help him recover completely from the trauma," Rexy added.
BAM previously enlisted sports psychologist Fred Tan to assist shuttlers preparing for the Paris Olympics, making him a potential candidate for Tze Yong's case.
Additionally, incoming national singles head coach Kenneth Jonassen, known for his motivational skills, may play a vital role in helping Tze Yong regain his competitive edge.
Jonassen officially begins his tenure tomorrow.