- The badminton community mourns the loss of Zhang
- Zhijie died of cardiac arrest on Monday
- Zhang's talent and passion will be deeply missed.
The badminton community is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Chinese player Zhang Zhijie, who died of cardiac arrest on Monday after collapsing on court during a tournament in Indonesia.
Zhang was playing in the Asia Junior Championships in Yogyakarta when he fell ill during his match against Japan’s Kazuma Kawano. The score was tied 11-11 in the first game when tragedy struck. Despite receiving medical attention at the court and being rushed to the hospital, efforts to revive Zhang were unsuccessful.
“Medical conclusions… indicated that the victim experienced sudden cardiac arrest,” stated Broto Happy, spokesperson for the Badminton Association of Indonesia.
Zhang’s talent and dedication to the sport were evident. He began playing badminton at a young age and had recently joined China’s national youth team. Earlier this year, he secured a victory in the prestigious Dutch Junior International singles competition.
The badminton world has rallied in the wake of this tragedy. Tributes poured in from governing bodies, fellow athletes, and officials. “The world of badminton has lost a talented player,” mourned Badminton Asia and the PBSI in a joint statement. China’s Badminton Association echoed this sentiment, describing Zhang as “an outstanding athlete” and expressing their “deep sadness” over his passing.
The badminton community came together to honor Zhang’s memory. A moment of silence was held during the team tournament on Monday, with the Chinese team wearing black armbands as a mark of respect. Olympic medalist P.V. Sindhu expressed her condolences, calling Zhang’s death “absolutely heartbreaking.” The Badminton World Federation released a statement offering their deepest sympathies to Zhang’s family, teammates, and the entire badminton community.
This sudden loss is a stark reminder of the fragility of life. Zhang’s talent and passion for badminton will be deeply missed.
