Lee Chong has withdrawn from both the next week's World Championships in Nanjing, China, and Asian Games in Indonesia due to health issues.

The Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) confirms the withdrawal.

- We regret to announce that Datuk Lee has informed BAM that he is unwell and suffering from a respiratory related disorder, BAM announces:

- His doctor has advised him to rest and undergo treatment. For the time being, he cannot undergo any intensive physical activity for a period of at least one month and therefore we have to withdraw Datuk Lee from his participation at the BWF World Championships and the Asian Games.

Read also: Chong Wei to skip World Championships?

- During this period of recovery, we ask the public and the media to respect the privacy of Datuk Lee and his family. We pray for his speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming him back at the Academy Badminton Malaysia, said BAM.

French Brice Leverdez was supposed to play Lee Chong Wei in the first round.