Exciting players: China’s Chen Long and South Korea’s Lee Yong-dae (right) were one of the best in the men’s singles and doubles respectively.
PETALING JAYA: Former stars Chen Long and Lee Yong-dae’s achievements have been recognised as both will be inducted into the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Hall of Fame.
China’s Chen Long and South Korea’s Yong-dae were one of the best in the men’s singles and doubles respectively and will be officially inducted on Dec 9 during the World Tour Finals gala dinner.
Chen Long helped China dominate the men’s singles along with Lin Dan, capturing gold in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics and won two world titles in 2014 and 2015.
The 35-year-old, nicknamed the Great Wall of China also won 20 Super Series titles and two World Tour crowns.
The 188cm tall Chen Long was known for his stamina and skills on court and has been rightly honoured for his achievements.
Meanwhile, Yong-dae also deserved the recognition as he was one of the most exciting doubles players of his generation.
Although specialising in men’s doubles, the handsome 36-year-old also combined excellently with Lee Hyo-jung to capture gold in the mixed doubles in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
Yong-dae also won bronze in the men’s doubles with Jung Jae-sung in the 2012 London Games.
The Korean is also a three-time silver medallist in the World Championships in 2007, 2009 and 2014.
In total, Yong-dae claimed a whopping 43 Super Series titles with various partners and three World Tour titles with Kim Gi-jung.
“Lee Yong Dae and Chen Long have set extraordinary benchmarks in our sport. Their achievements on and off the court have elevated badminton to new heights,” said BWF President Poul-Erik Hoyer.
“We are proud to celebrate their legacies by inducting them into the BWF Hall of Fame.”
