Lin Dan, a pouncing tiger in the world of badminton
The arena of badminton has produced numerous shuttlers who have earned respect by proving their supremacy in the arena but China’s Lin Dan has touched the highest standard and has also taken this game to a different level.
The 28-year-old Dan has been displaying extraordinary performances for the last one decade and is undeniably considered the best shuttler in the history of badminton considering that he has clinched titles in all major events including Olympic Games, World Championships, Thomas Cup, Sudirman Cup, Asian Championships and All England Open.
The World Number Two Dan is the only shuttler in the arena who has been awarded with title of 'Grand Slam' because he has won all titles in the individual as well as team-event tournaments.
Dan, who is also known as ‘Super Dan’ is a four-time World Champion and ruling Olympic Champion and is the favourite to defend his title at the upcoming Olympic Games.
The sensational achievements of Dan show his strong character, commitment and dedication to attain a target. His confidence is the key to his success as he never loses his nerves and knows very well how to handle crucial situations. Dan, who is famous for his aggressive approach in the court, is a wonderful fighter and elevates his level of play whenever the occasion demands.
The current World Number One, Lee Chong Wei of Malaysia, has always been receiving a severe treatment from the Chinese shuttler in all major tournaments including World Championships and Olympics. The main difference between these two best players is their mental strength and confidence.
The Malaysian has always lacked the confidence against Dan, who dominates the arena in all important events. Mental toughness plays a key role in producing good results and Dan is known for this characteristic.
Dan pounced on Chong Wei in the final of 2008 Beijing Olympics and won the fight easily in straight games. In the final of 2011 World Championships, Chong Wei found a chance to win the title as he had two match points but Dan powered his way back into the game and clinched the title.
In 2011, Super Dan won seven titles including Korea Open Premier Super Series, German open Grand Prix Gold, Badminton Asia Championships, Double Star BWF Sudirman Cup (team event), Yonex BWF World Championships, Yonex Sunrise Hong Kong Open, Li Ning China Open and Li Ning BWF World Super Series Finals.
The ruling Olympic and World Champion is looking forward to defend his title in the 2012 London Olympics, which will start from the last week of July, in London, England. Chong Wei might be the top seed there but the Chinese has a psychological advantage over him when it comes to the title match of a mega event.
China’s mega star has been serving his country with pride for approximately fifteen years and is still regarded as the best shuttler in the world. He has also maintained a visible difference against the rest of Chinese players which shows his hard work and commitment to the game.
Many people also think the Chinese hero is somewhat over confident, ambitious and aggressive. However, no one denies that when he gets into the court, he becomes a pouncing tiger and maintains an upper hand over his challengers in an emphatic style.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and in no way represent Bettor.com's official editorial policy.
Tags: