Rashid Sidek thinks Lin Dan is capable of winning gold medal twice – London Olympics Update
Singles chief coach of Malaysia Rashid Sidek commended Lin Dan’s badminton craft and declared him the potential contender for a gold medal in the mega event, set to be held from July 27, 2012.
The Chinese maestro is the first and only shuttler in history to complete the Super Grand Slam by claiming all major titles of the badminton world.
In 2008 edition of the Games, Lin Dan won his first Olympic gold medal in Beijing and this year he will make every effort to repeat history in London.
However, stats show that no one could ever defend his honour in the mega event and Rashid Sidek thinks this will put the ace under huge pressure.
Though, the badminton guru stated that the Chinese campaigner will face immense pressure but in same breath he also declared that Lin Dan has the potential to surpass all the hurdles in this race of glory.
He said, "Winning a second gold will be the greatest achievement. Lin Dan has what it takes to do it but the pressure on him will be tremendous."
The World Number one shuttler is respected as the greatest shuttler of all times as he has proved his worth by raising his country’s flag in every corner of the world.
He will lead national Men’s Singles squad which also comprises danger men like Chen Long and Chen Jin but Rashid Sidek believes that only Lin Dan is China’s biggest bet in coming London Games.
He said, "He has been showing his intent to win it twice and if China wants gold in the men's singles, he is the person who will do it."
The Malaysian coach added that the other two campaigners, Chen Long and Chen Jin, lack that experience and brilliance which is required to secure top position on the victory stand.
He said, "Chen Long is inexperienced while Chen Jin is not playing well. It will be a test of character for Lin Dan. It depends on how much he wants a second gold and whether he is capable of handling the pressure."
However, Rashid did not play down Lee Chong Wei’s prospects in the mega event as he briefed that the Malaysian ace has revived his lost mental and physical strength and that makes him one of the strongest contenders of the Olympics.
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