Toh Ee Wei, the 25-year-old Malaysian mixed doubles badminton player, is making steady progress in her recovery following surgery on her left knee earlier this year. The injury, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, occurred during the Singapore Open in May, prompting Ee Wei to undergo surgery in early July. Since then, she has been focused on rehabilitation at a program in Melbourne, Australia.

A key part of her recovery regimen involves a carefully planned nutritious diet aimed at rebuilding muscle strength and aiding healing. Ee Wei emphasized the importance of nutrition alongside physical therapy and training, explaining that a protein-rich diet is helping her regain strength in her legs and prepare for future competition.

“Recovery is not only about training and rehab. Nutrition plays an equally important role in giving our body what it needs to heal, rebuild muscle, regain strength, and prepare for the next challenge,” she said. “Every detail counts. It’s the small things done consistently, that lead to progress.”

Eleven weeks post-surgery, Ee Wei is optimistic about returning to competitive play by the end of the year, pending the progress of her rehabilitation. This timeline would allow her to resume training and eventually compete again after a significant period away from the court.

Her injury and recovery process have impacted her recent competitive opportunities. She and her mixed doubles partner Chen Tang Jie, under the guidance of coach Nova Widianto, missed the World Championships held in New Delhi last month, where they were originally expected to compete as defending world champions. The duo secured the world title last year, but Ee Wei’s injury has delayed their chance to defend that championship.

As she continues her rehabilitation, Ee Wei’s focus remains on a holistic approach combining physical therapy and proper nutrition, aiming to fully restore her capabilities and return to international badminton competition.