THE Youth and Sports Ministry believes that the Badminton World Federation (BWF) has good reasons for recognising the country’s legend Lee Chong Wei.

Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said Lee’s induction into the 2023 BWF Hall of Fame was also based on the badminton body’s data and statistics.

“I was there when he (Lee) received the award and the recognition with Lin Dan, and if we look at the data and statistics, I believe the BWF had strong reasons before it gave the recognition.

“Besides, we are really proud of Chong Wei’s achievements,” she told reporters after flagging off the Balik Pulau Half Marathon 2023 participants at the Balik Pulau Sports Complex.

Yeoh said this when asked to comment on the statement of former Indonesian badminton champion, Taufik Hidayat on social media, who questioned Lee’s induction into the Hall of Fame along with China’s Lin.

In the video, Taufik also admitted that Lin was more deserving and he questioned Lee’s inclusion in the list.

On May 26, Lee and Lin were inducted into the Hall of Fame for their achievements and contributions to the sport by being among the most influential and transformative players throughout their careers.

Lee’s dominance in the badminton arena saw him win 47 Super Series or BWF World Tour titles during his 19 years of involvement and hold the no. 1 position for 349 weeks.

The 41-year-old Lee is Malaysia’s most successful badminton athlete, with three Olympic silver medals in 2008 Beijing, 2018 London and 2016 Rio editions. He was runner-up in three World Championships in 2011, 2013 and 2015. – Bernama, June 4, 2023.