Tan serves a much needed Boon to Zii Jia

FORMER doubles ace Tan Boon Heong knows how to inspire a dejected Lee Zii Jia.

World No. 16 Zii Jia was left frustrated after squandering two match points before going down 16-21, 23-21, 20-22 to H.S. Prannoy of India in the men’s singles quarter-finals in the Hangzhou Asian Games on Thursday.

“It was a very exciting men’s singles match with both players delivering strong performances … Respect!” posted 2006 Doha gold medallist Boon Heong on social media.

“Even though he (Zii Jia) lost, at least he managed to rediscover his playing style and played very patiently in slow ball situations.

“All in all, it is clear that he has improved.

“Keep up the hard work and best of luck in the upcoming tournaments.”

Zii Jia had beaten world No. 18 Angus Ng Ka Long of Hong Kong (first round) and reigning world champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn en route to the last eight.

Despite ending his campaign without a medal, Zii Jia can still draw positives from his overall performance.