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15-Year-Old Zi Yu Battles Thyroid, Skips Full ABM Training; Still Dominates Junior Badminton with 2 World Silvers

Shivansh Rana | 4 min read | 2 weeks ago | Oct 23, 2025 08:17 pm IST
15-Year-Old Zi Yu Battles Thyroid, Skips Full ABM Training; Still Dominates Junior Badminton with 2 World Silvers

Can you imagine being a 15-year-old sports prodigy, already a national junior, and then having to make one of the toughest calls of your life? That’s exactly what Johor’s badminton sensation, Low Zi Yu, faced recently. She’s decided to temporarily step back from full-time training at the prestigious Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM), a move stemming from a thyroid condition she’s been courageously battling since May last year. This decision, widely reported between October 19 and October 23, 2025, just shows the immense pressure young athletes endure, especially with health curveballs.

Key Takeaways

  • Low Zi Yu, 15, opted out of full-time Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) training.
  • Her decision is due to a thyroid condition she has managed since May last year.
  • She remarkably secured two silver medals at the World Junior Championships.
  • Zi Yu won the Dutch Junior International and Slovakia Open this year with Dania Sofea Zaidi.
  • ABM confirmed its doors remain open for her future full-time return.

A Champion’s Tough Call

Here’s the thing: Zi Yu, a true badminton gem from Johor, needs to manage her thyroid condition closely. It’s been with her since May last year. This isn’t just a minor setback; it’s a significant health challenge that requires close family supervision, making full-time, intense training incredibly difficult. But honestly, who wouldn’t put their health first?

The news came out between October 19 and October 23, 2025, and it really got people talking. It shows the real sacrifices and impossible decisions young athletes face when their bodies push back. We often forget the human side of these sporting marvels.

Unstoppable on Court: Zi Yu’s Medal Haul

But don’t for a second think this health issue has stopped her. Not even close. Zi Yu’s talent is just undeniable, isn’t it? She’s already grabbed two silver medals at the World Junior Championships. Think about that!

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Just recently, on October 19, 2025, she clinched a silver with Noraqilah Maisarah Ramdan in India after a tough final. And get this: last year, she earned another silver with Dania Sofea Zaidi, becoming the youngest Malaysian medallist at the tournament at just 14 years old. Incredible, right?

This year alone? She’s already swept up two more titles with Dania, taking home the Dutch Junior International and the Slovakia Open. Plus, she even qualified for the Macau Open, a Super 300 event. That’s a resume most pros dream of!

Expert Analysis: The Road Ahead

So, what does this mean for her future? Well, the Academy Badminton Malaysia has made it clear: their doors are always open for Zi Yu. Should her health allow, the opportunity for full-time national squad training will absolutely be there. That’s real support.

When she’s not on national duty, Zi Yu isn’t just resting. No way! She heads back to Johor, training diligently with the Johor Badminton Association (JHBA). It’s a smart move, balancing her health with continued progress. This young woman is playing the long game, and she’s playing it well.

Social Media Storm: Fans React

You know social media exploded with this news. Fans are heartbroken for her health but also incredibly proud of her strength and maturity. Hashtags like #ZiYuStrong and #BadmintonHero are probably trending, celebrating her decision to prioritize well-being while still absolutely crushing it on the court. It’s inspiring, honestly, how much support pours out for athletes facing personal battles.

People are sharing her story, praising her courage, and sending waves of good wishes. It’s not just about the medals; it’s about the resilience she embodies. That resonates with everyone, doesn’t it?

What an incredible journey for Low Zi Yu. She’s showing the world that health comes first, but also that true talent and determination can shine through any challenge. What do you think about her decision? Share your thoughts on this rising star’s brave choice!