Zii Jia Expected To Play In The US Next Month

KUALA LUMPUR, May 19 (Bernama) -- Professional men’s singles ace Lee Zii Jia who will not be competing in the Malaysia Masters 2026 here this week, appears set to return to action in a competition in the United States (US) next month.

This came after the US Embassy in Malaysia Kuala Lumpur via their Instagram post shared photos of Zii Jia during a visit to the embassy ahead of an upcoming tournament in Los Angeles.

“From KL to LA! We were thrilled to welcome Malaysian badminton star Lee Zii Jia and his team to the US embassy today as they prepare for their upcoming competition in Los Angeles.

“Sports has an unique way of bringing our two nations together, and we can't wait to see LZJ showcase his incredible talent on American courts. Safe travels and all the best, Zii Jia,” it said.

It is believed that the world number 62 will compete in the US Open 2026 slated to be held at the Titan Gymnasium, California State University, Fullerton, from June 23-28.

The Super 300 tournament offers a total prize money of USD250,000 (RM993,725).

Yesterday, it was reported that Zii Jia chose not to take advantage of a late opening in the Malaysia Masters qualifying rounds following the withdrawal of several players.

Several top players, including world No. 1 from China Shi Yuqi and world No. 3 from Denmark  Anders Antonsen decided to skip the Super 500 tournament.

This year’s Malaysia Masters, which kicked off at the Unifi Arena, Bukit Jalil, here, carries a total prize pool of USD500,000 (RM1.98 million).

Last week, Zii Jia suffered a qualifying round exit at the Thailand Open 2026 as he went down to Israel's Daniil Dubovenko 20-22, 10-21, in the first round.

-- BERNAMA