The 37-year-old Penangite, who had an unprecedented nine-year reign as world No 1, will compete in an online poll against 23 other candidates representing various sports from all editions of the World Games’ 40-year history (1981 to 2017).

The candidates were nominated by their international sports federations.

On Jan 20, the 10 candidates with the most votes will progress to the finale and the winner will be crowned on Feb 1.