England: Reigning men’s singles world champion Chen Long of China sensationally beat compatriot the two-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time All-England champion Lin Dan for the first time in his career on Saturday to earn a spot in the All England final.
Chen Long was hyper aggressive and in-control from the get-go, playing with marvelous instant defense to offense style of attacking. Lin Dan was clearly uncomfortable of the way Chen Long played, thus, lost his rhythm, and could not perform at his normal game.
“I don’t know why we didn’t get to play on the center court, since only the center court has instant video replay. I could have earned two more points if the umpire has the capability to review the instant reply,” said Lin Dan.
“Those two points would be enough to turn things around. Nevertheless, I have to admit I was not excited or pumped up coming into the match,” added Lin Dan.
Meanwhile, Chen Long was happy with the win.
“The victory gave me confidence that I am capable of beating players like Lin Dan,” said Chen Long.
Chen Long will play Jan O Jorgensen, Denmark’s world number two, in the final as he looks to regain the title he first won in 2013. Jorgensen became the first European to reach the men’s final since Peter Gade in 2004 with a crushing 21-11 21-12 victory over Japan’s Sho Sasaki.
