Chong Wei’s smash recognised as fastest

Reuters pix

KUALA LUMPUR: Former world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei's 408km per hour missile at last year's Hong Kong Open has been recognised as the most powerful smash in badminton since September, close to the top speed clocked by the fastest production car in the world.

Currently ranked No. 2 in the world, Lee's smash topped the list, according to data supplied by Hawk-Eye Innovations, which provides instant-review services at major tournaments.

Denmark's Jan O Jorgensen was marginally behind Lee with a 407 kph missile in the semi-finals of the Malaysia Open this year.

Thailand's Ratchanok Intanon, the second-ranked in women's badminton, is not too far behind and clocked 372kph in the semi-finals of the same tournament in Malaysia.

Five-time world champion Lin Dan of China recorded a 401 kph smash on his way to victory in the 2015 Japan Open. - Reuters