Badminton star Lee Chong Wei vows to clear his name after failed drug tests

Badminton world number one Lee Chong Wei has said he “never cheated” and will fight to clear his name, as he finally broke his silence on positive drugs tests that have shocked the sport. Reports that the Malaysian star tested positive for the banned anti-inflammatory dexamethasone at the world championships in Copenhagen in August have been circulating for weeks, although officials refused to identify Lee. But the shuttler wrote on Twitter Saturday that he hoped to clear his name, posting a link to an interview in which he describes himself as “devastated” by the allegations.

Thank u for having faith in me. I never cheated nor will I ever rely on banned substances. There are so many unanswered questions, and I hope to clear my name soon.

Lee Chong Wei on Twitter

Fans have been shocked by the allegations against Lee, a hero in Malaysia who is known for his humility and diligence. BAM and other officials have defended Lee, saying the drug was not performance-enhancing. They are probing if it may stem from treatment of a thigh injury in July, when Lee received stem cell injections. Lee — who is facing a suspension of up to two years, which could mean the end of his career — is now awaiting a hearing by the Badminton World Federation. No date has been set as yet. Badminton has seen few doping scandals, with previous controversies mainly stemming from judging inconsistencies and attempts to throw matches.

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