KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 11 -- Lee Zii Jia's 2024 season looks increasingly uncertain after the Malaysian badminton star pulled out of the upcoming Australian Open due to a lingering back injury.

According to the Badminton World Federation (BWF) website, the independent shuttler's name appeared under the "withdrawn" list for the Sydney tournament, set to take place from November 18 to 23.

The 27-year-old has been battling the back injury since his last competitive outing at the China Masters in September.

His withdrawal from the Australian Open marks yet another setback in a year marred by fitness concerns and inconsistent form.

Lee's continued absence from competition raises fresh doubts about whether he will return to the court before the...