Kento Momota, who was caught in a traffic accident in Malaysia along with several badminton officials, was discharged from the Putrajaya Hospital and left for Japan on Wednesday.

The world number one wore a black cap, sunglasses and a face mask as he arrived at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport amidst media fanfare, before being swiftly escorted to the departure hall for his 10am flight.


Momota’s departure ends an eventful week for the Japanese superstar, which saw him win the Malaysia Masters men’s singles title before being involved in the accident that claimed the life of van driver N.Bavan just hours later.

The world champion, who suffered facial lacerations, is expected to be given further treatment in Japan and is scheduled to only make a competitive return at the All-England Championship in March.

"Kento Momota, Hirayama Yu and Morimoto Akifumi were discharged from the Putrajaya Hospital and have departed for Tokyo, Japan.

"We wish all the individuals involved with the accident a full recovery as they continue to recuperate," read a statement from the Badminton Association of Malaysia.