Saarbrücken, Germany, October 29, 2026: Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia has withdrawn from next week’s Korea Open to recover from illness after losing to Japan’s Kodai Naraoka in the second round of the 2026 HYLO Open on Thursday.
Despite battling fever and gastrointestinal symptoms throughout the tournament, the former All England champion pushed world No. 9 Naraoka to three games before falling 21-11, 13-21, 14-21 in a 63-minute contest at Saarlandhalle.
The defeat ended Lee’s HYLO Open campaign in the round of 16, but the Malaysian expressed pride in his determination to compete despite his physical condition.
Lee Zii Jia Falls to Kodai Naraoka After Winning Opening Game
World No. 42 Lee made an encouraging start against Naraoka, the runner-up at the 2026 BWF World Championships.
The Malaysian took the opening game 21-11, putting himself in a promising position to reach the quarterfinals.
However, Naraoka responded by winning the second game 21-13 before completing his comeback with a 21-14 victory in the decider.
The Japanese player advanced to the quarterfinals, while Lee’s tournament ended after two demanding three-game matches on consecutive days.
Lee had previously defeated Singapore’s Jason Teh Jia Heng 21-16, 19-21, 21-17 in Wednesday’s opening round despite suffering from illness.
Watch Highlights: Lee Zii Jia vs. Kodai Naraoka – 2026 HYLO Open Round of 16
Lee Zii Jia Proud of Fighting Spirit Despite Illness
Lee’s participation in the HYLO Open had been uncertain after he experienced gastrointestinal problems, fever and chills on Tuesday.
He revealed after his first-round victory that he had visited a hospital the previous day because of a high fever and vomiting.
Nevertheless, Lee chose to compete and completed both matches despite his condition.
Reflecting on Thursday’s defeat, Lee shared a message on Instagram acknowledging the challenge of facing Naraoka while unwell.
“It’s always a tough battle against Mr. Kodai Naraoka,” Lee wrote.
“My physical condition before the match was no secret, but I’m glad my determination to fight through the illness showed in these two matches.”
Despite the second-round exit, Lee remained positive about his overall progress.
“Overall, I’ve made some improvements. See you next time, HYLO Open.”
Lee Zii Jia Withdraws From Korea Open to Focus on Recovery
Lee’s health concerns have now forced him to withdraw from next week’s Korea Open in Yeosu, South Korea.
The Malaysian had originally been scheduled to begin his campaign in the qualifying rounds but will instead prioritize rest and recovery.
His withdrawal comes after a demanding European tournament schedule that included a semifinal appearance at the Arctic Open three weeks earlier.
During that tournament, Lee recorded a notable victory over France’s Christo Popov, who has since climbed to world No. 1 following his French Open championship.
Although Lee was unable to reach the Arctic Open final, the semifinal appearance offered encouraging signs as he continued working toward regaining his best form.
The HYLO Open defeat represents another setback, but his performances against Jason Teh and Naraoka demonstrated his willingness to compete through difficult circumstances.
What’s Next for Lee Zii Jia?
Lee’s immediate priority will be recovering sufficiently before returning to international competition.
He is currently listed as a reserve for the upcoming Kumamoto Masters in Japan and Hong Kong Open in November.
His next targeted tournament is the Syed Modi International, scheduled for November 24–29 in Lucknow, India.
Whether Lee can return in time will depend on his recovery following the illness that disrupted his HYLO Open campaign.
For the former world No. 2, regaining full fitness will be essential as he looks to build on the progress shown during the recent European tournaments.
Complete Tournament Results
2026 HYLO Open – Men’s Singles Round of 16
Kodai Naraoka (Japan) defeated Lee Zii Jia (Malaysia), 11-21, 21-13, 21-14.
