1-7-2024 (JAKARTA) A pall of grief has descended upon the badminton world following the tragic passing of Zhang Zhi Jie, a promising young Chinese player who collapsed on court during the Badminton Asia Junior Championships 2024 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
The harrowing incident unfolded on Sunday during the third match between China and Japan at the Among Raga Indoor Stadium. With the score tied at 11-11 in the opening game, Zhi Jie, who was facing off against Kazuma Kawano, suddenly crumpled to the floor in the middle of the court.
As the 17-year-old lay motionless, convulsing on the court, medical personnel swiftly rushed to his aid, administering emergency first response. However, despite their best efforts, Zhi Jie was pronounced dead at 11:20 p.m. local time after being rushed to the hospital.
In a joint statement, Badminton Asia, the Indonesian Badminton Association (PBSI), and the tournament organizers expressed their profound sorrow over Zhi Jie’s untimely demise. “Zhang Zhi Jie from China, a singles player, collapsed on court during the evening match. He was rushed to the hospital and passed away at 11:20 p.m. local time yesterday,” the statement read.
The organizations extended their deepest condolences to Zhi Jie’s parents, family, and the Chinese Badminton Association (CBA), lamenting the loss of a talented young athlete. “The badminton world has lost a promising player,” the statement added solemnly.
The Junior Asian Championships, currently underway in Yogyakarta, had initially commenced with the team events scheduled from June 28 to July 2. Following the completion of the team competitions, the individual tournaments were set to take place.
