Malaysia's Lee Zii Jia has taken another significant step in his return to form after reaching the semi-finals of the Canada Open, his first appearance in the last four of a BWF World Tour tournament in more than two years.
The former world No. 2 produced another assured performance in Markham, defeating Taiwan's sixth seed Wang Po Wei 21-15, 21-13 in just 34 minutes to secure his place in the semi-finals.
Currently ranked No. 60 in the world, Lee looked in complete control throughout the quarter-final, using his attacking game and solid court coverage to dispatch Wang in straight games. The convincing victory continues an encouraging run that suggests the Malaysian is steadily regaining the consistency that once made him one of badminton's top players.
Lee's campaign in Canada has gathered momentum with each round. After advancing past former world championship silver medallist K. Srikanth following the Indian's retirement in the opening round, he went on to defeat Liao Jhuo Fu before comfortably overcoming Wang to reach the tournament's final four.
His latest result is also his best on the BWF World Tour since lifting the Australian Open title in June 2024, providing another encouraging sign that his comeback is gathering pace.
Standing between Lee and a place in the final is Japan's Riki Takei. The pair met only recently during the qualifying rounds of last month's Australian Open, where Lee recovered from a game down to claim a hard-fought 15-21, 21-17, 21-16 victory.
Takei will provide another stern test after enjoying a strong season of his own, including a runner-up finish at the China Masters Super 100 in May.
Beyond the chance to compete for the title, Lee's run in Canada is expected to boost his world ranking. His semi-final finish is projected to move him back inside the world's top 55, while winning the tournament could lift him close to the top 50.
For Lee, the results in Markham represent more than just ranking points. They are another important milestone in his return to the highest level of international badminton and a timely reminder that he remains capable of challenging the sport's best.
