Chen Jin upstages Lin Dan in the final
News 1:50 PM
PETALING JAYA: A pumped up Chen Jin of China bagged his maiden All-England men's singles title in Birmingham yesterday to strengthen his claim for a place in the Beijing Olympics.
He defeated his more illustrious compatriot, top seed and defending champion Lin Dan – winning the match 22-20, 25-23 in 45 minutes. It was Chen Jin's first win over Lin Dan in six meetings since 2004.
Prior to the All-England, Chen Jin's other titles were the Swiss and Macau Open last year, the 2006 China Masters and the 2004 Polish and French Opens.
With the win yesterday, Chen Jin has also strengthened his current position at fourth spot in the world rankings and harbour hopes of featuring in the Beijing Games.
A country can have a maximum of three players if all of them are ranked among the top four. China now have Lin Dan at number one and Bao Chunlai at number three.
It was unfortunate that Lin Dan was not at his best in his bid to win the title for the third time. At times, he held the bandage on the left knee, grimacing in pain. He even limped on court a couple of times.
Despite his condition, Lin Dan did not throw in the towel.
In fact, he gave a great chase from 7-11 in the second game before bowing out 23-25.
"It really hurt when I got up this morning and I couldn't jump or smash properly. I did think about pulling out when he got ahead in the second, but there were a lot of spectators and I wanted to keep playing for them.
"I am disappointed, but I am also pleased for Chen. He is a good friend and a team-mate and he deserved the win today."
Despite the injury, the 24-year-old still hopes to play in this week's Swiss Open.
"I do not play until Wednesday, so I hope the two days rest will be enough," he added.
Chen Jin admitted he was "very happy" but was not too surprised to spring the shock.
“I had heard yesterday that he maybe had a little problem with his knee and, although I've never beaten him in a tournament, I have beaten him in training.”
Posted by Lucas Liau
on 1:50 PM.
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