Lee Chong Wei admits being approached by match-fixer

Kuala Lumpur, February 21 

Lee Chong Wei has revealed he once rejected an offer by a match-fixer and said he was “ashamed” two fellow Malaysian badminton players were under investigation over alleged fixing, a report said today. World No. 2 Lee said he was approached a few years ago, without giving further details. “Money is not everything to me,” he was quoted as saying.

“For me, national pride comes first and it is my responsibility to uphold it.” The 35-year-old’s revelation came after news emerged last week that two Malaysian players are being investigated by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) for suspected match-fixing. The pair, who are reportedly due to face a BWF hearing in Singapore later this month, could be banned for life if found guilty. Lee, a three-time Olympics silver medallist, said the allegations had “tarnished” Malaysia’s reputation. “As a top player, I feel embarrassed and ashamed,” he said. “I hope the case comes to an end soon.” Malaysian sports officials have declined to identify the two players embroiled in the scandal, who have been suspended, or give details of the allegations against them. But reports say they are a former top junior player and another who had taken part in the Thomas Cup, a prestigious team event. 

And in 2014, the BWF asked police to investigate claims by two Danish players, Hans-Kristian Vittinghus and Kim Astrup, that they were approached by a Malaysian man to throw matches. — AFP