Malaysians show support to Lee despite defeat in badminton worlds

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysians rushed to show support to their national hero Lee Chong Wei despite his loss to nemesis Lin Dan in Badminton World Championship final on Sunday.

Malaysians have kept close watch on Lee's bid to win his first world champion title, but the Malaysian shuttler retired in the third set due to injury in the thrilling men's singles final.

Social networking sites were still full of compliments on Lee as many fans wish their hero to get well soon.

"There is pride in defeat against such a formidable opponent. Well done," Prime Minister Najib Razak tweeted on the micro-blogging site.

Lee has won two silver medals for Malaysia in the past two Olympics, making him one of the most influential and respectable athletes in the country.