Ng Tze Yong — IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Ng Tze Yong was wearing a huge smile although his challenge in the Asian Championships in Ningbo, China, ended in the first round.
Tze Yong, who made his competitive return after a year-long break, felt it was a miracle to be able to play again.
He had previously struggled with a back injury and underwent multiple surgeries, along with a long recovery process.
Despite not being as agile as before, Tze Yong remains optimistic after his 9-21, 12-21 loss to 2023 world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand in the first round.
He feels his condition is improving, with the pain from his previous injury gradually fading.
"I feel pretty happy. I can still go back to the court, and I don't have any pain," said Tze Yong.
"The most important thing is that I can still return to the court and I'm not bothered by the injury.
"Now I should be able to play at 60 to 70 percent from my previous condition," added Tze Yong.