Taiwanese badminton star Chou Tien-Chen clinched the men’s singles title at the Thailand Masters, an unexpected triumph in an event typically outside the purview of top-10 players. Following his gripping 62-minute victory over Singapore’s Loh Kean Yew, a poignant moment unfolded as Chou lay on the court, emotionally covering his face while his physiotherapist, Kao Min-shan, prayed courtside—a hint at a more profound narrative.
In a post-match interview with CNA, the 34-year-old Chou disclosed a deeply personal struggle—he was diagnosed with early-stage colorectal cancer in 2023. The unexpected diagnosis, discovered during a routine physical, led to surgery to remove the cancerous part of his colon. Despite the surgery, which required cutting more of his large intestine than usual, Chou resumed competing overseas just a day later, showcasing his unwavering determination.
While the cancer had a minimal impact on his training, dietary adjustments were necessary, resulting in a dip in Chou’s competitive performance in 2023. His world ranking plummeted from No. 5 to No. 14. Now, with the Thailand Masters victory, Chou aims to publicly share his story, hoping to inspire others by emphasizing the resilience needed to overcome setbacks with determination and a positive mindset as he gears up for upcoming European tournaments.
