KUALA LUMPUR – The rivalry between badminton greats Datuk Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan was what kept them both motivated to achieve greatness in the sport.
They told the media this when they were inducted into the BWF Hall of Fame today, in the wake of a glittering rivalry spanning 20 years.
“There has not been a precedent for a rivalry between two players spanning 20 years like this.
“When we faced each other, I knew it would always be until the final,” said five-time world champion Lin Dan at a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Meanwhile, Chong Wei added that their rivalry had encouraged them to bring out their best against each other.
“I knew that in order to win a tournament, I had to beat him. This kept me motivated to bring my best every time,” said the 40-year-old former international, who bagged 69 career titles.
Speaking on his induction into the BWF Hall of Fame, Chong Wei said it is a good thing for his career, as he hopes to inspire young shuttlers to become better players.
“There have been many Malaysians who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
“I hope young players can use this as an inspiration,” added the three-time Olympic silver medallist.
For the record, Chong Wei remains the only player in badminton history to top the world ranking for more than 300 weeks.
He joins the likes of Wong Peng Soon, Tan Yee Khan, Ong Poh Lim, Ng Boon Bee, Eddy Choong, and David Choong in the BWF Hall of Fame.
In the meantime, Lin Dan said his induction into the Hall of Fame is special for him, adding that he is proud to be among other badminton greats.
The players admitted that their two-decade dominance in the sport encouraged each other to do better in each tournament.
“Whenever he (Lin Dan) wins a tournament, I want to win the next one,” said Chong Wei.
“It is a good thing for him, because that is what people remember him for,” added Lin Dan. – The Vibes, May 26, 2023
