The national junior badminton squad’s technical director said comparisons could be made based on Zii Jia’s capability and charisma, besides his personal traits in carving a career towards becoming the best player in the world.

“If at this young age, he could smash his way to victory while coping with the tremendous pressure at major competitions, Zii Jia has more to offer and achieve, considering he had only played twice at the All England. Last year, he reached the quarterfinals and this year, he’s the champion.

“He has the same characteristics and charisma (as Chong Wei’s), and the way he carries himself … it’s there,” Misbun told reporters at Istana Negara yesterday.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah had graced a tea reception with the national badminton squad at the palace.

Zii Jia became a national badminton sensation with his first All England title last month after trouncing big names such as world No 1 Kento Momota in the quarterfinals before defeating defending champion Viktor Axelsen in the final.

“The question now is how do we shape him to become a more competent and stronger player,” said Misbun.

As the individual responsible in unearthing Chong Wei’s and Zii Jia’s talent in the sport and shaping them into champions, Misbun opined that Zii Jia should focus on improving his physical fitness to be a more stable player at all high-level competitions.