http://www.nationmultimedia.com/sports/Lee-to-play-Kings-birthday-tournament-30248349.html
Embattled world No 1 Lee Jong Wei of Malaysia has dispelled fears he might skip the Badminton Thai Glory to the King tournament on December 5, yesterday confirming his participation in the exhibition event against arch-rival Lin Dan of China.
Lee assured media gathered at Bangkok's Banyan Tree hotel that he would take part in next month's showdown at the Hua Mark Indoor Stadium, being staged to celebrate his Majesty the King's 87th birthday.
The two-time Olympic silver medallist tested positive for dexamethasone from urine samples taken during the World Championships in August, prompting the Badminton World Federation to suspend him from BWF events.
"It's an honour for me to participate in the Badminton Thai Glory to the King tournament. I have been training hard for this special event," said the Malaysian, who lost the last two Olympics finals to Lin.
"I cannot speak about the test result as there has yet to be a final hearing from the BWF. Right now I just have to focus on my training and stay in good physical condition," added the 32-year-old.
Organisers emphasised that Lee was eligible to play the event, which is not BWF-sanctioned. Granular Club players including doubles specialist Bodin Issara and Pakkawat Wilailuck will also take apart in the tournament, which will be televised on Channel 3, 32, 42 and Thairath TV from 1pm-3pm on December 5.
World badminton 'disgraced'
Former Olympic champion Taufik Hidayat warned other badminton players to take extra care over their diet and supplements after world No 1 Lee's positive test.
The retired Indonesian said Malaysia's Lee probably took the banned anti-inflammatory dexamethasone by mistake, but that he should still have been aware of what was going into his body.
"I just can't believe it until now. I'm not sure that he did it in purpose. Maybe there was a mistake when he was still receiving medication for his injury," Taufik said, according to the Jakarta Globe.
"A world-class player like Chong Wei should have known what he consumed, what went into his body. And BAM [Badminton Association of Malaysia] is a professional body that carefully looks after its players."
Lee, 32, is temporarily barred from competition after testing positive during the world championships. He could face an eventual suspension of up to two years.
"Athletes must be aware of many things, not only their daily training. They should know what they eat, what they drink," said Hidayat, who quit the sport last year.
"Once athletes take doping, there goes their name and achievements." He added: "This case is a disgrace to world badminton. It's just too bad if it's true."