The sports world is reeling from a tragic loss. The sudden death of Chinese badminton player Zhang Zhi Jie on the court during the Asia Junior Championship in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, has left the badminton community in shock and disbelief.
Zhang Zhi Jie was a junior player who competed in men’s singles. He suddenly collapsed in the middle of a match with Kazuma Kawano.
After collapsing, the medical team entered the court and tried to help him. He was transported to the nearest hospital but sadly passed away.
At that time, Zhang was preparing to receive a serve from Kawamo. However, he suddenly fell in the middle of the court and immediately convulsed.
Zhang was rushed to the nearest hospital from the venue, GOR Amongrogo, Yogyakarta. He arrived at the hospital for treatment within two minutes.
However, Zhang was declared dead on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at 23.20 WIB. Badminton Indonesia Association (PBSI) conveyed the sad news through its official statement.
“Zhang Zhi Jie from China, the singles player, collapsed on the field during the evening match and was rushed to the hospital and died at 23.20 (June 30, 2024) local time,” according to the official PBSI statement.
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“Badminton Asia, PBSI, and the Organizing Committee send their deepest condolences to Zhang’s parents, family, and the Chinese Badminton Association (CBA). The badminton world lost a talented player,” continued the official statement.
The Asia Junior Championship competition took place in Yogyakarta from June 28 to July 7. The team category competed first until July 2. After that, the individual category matches followed.
Until this news was written, there was no official statement regarding the cause of Zhang Zhi Jie’s death. He was only 17 years old.
According to the Zhejiang regional government website, Zhang Zhi Jie’s hometown, he was a talented Chinese badminton player. He is said to be able to continue the Chinese tradition of producing outstanding men’s singles in badminton sport.
