THE jinx in China continued for world No. 1 Lee Chong Wei. Photo credit The Star Guangzhou China
Guangzhou: Yesterday, Chong Wei’s hopes of becoming Malaysia’s first world champion ended in a dramatic fashion when he conceded a walkover to Lin Dan of China after he suffered cramps during the closing stages in the men’s singles final of the World Championships.
He retired at 21-16, 13-21, 17-20 in the longest match of the tournament – one hour and 34 minutes – to give Lin Dan his fifth world title.
It was the second time that Chong Wei was forced to concede a walkover in China. Last year, he injured his foot while playing against Peter-Gade Christensen in a tie against Denmark in the Thomas Cup Finals in Wuhan. He was also taken to hospital.
There was, however, no hint of anything untoward in the opening game yesterday. It went according to the formbook with both Chong Wei and Lin Dan executing brilliant moves and captivating strokes on the court. Chong Wei held the advantage after a 21-16 win.
The problem started in the second game when the air conditioners was suddenly switched off. It was like a furnace inside the Tianhe Gymnasium.
Chong Wei, who had gotten use to the draught in the stadium by now, was affected by the heat and the stillness of the air in the stadium. He
misjudged many shots and as a result suffered a 13-21 defeat.
In the decider, Chong Wei upped the tempo in his game and did well to take a 10-6 lead. Lin Dan, however, did not give up. He stepped on the gas to take a 19-15 lead.
It was then that Chong Wei was hit by cramps. With both his legs feeling wobbly, Chong Wei took two breaks in between four points. But after Lin Dan reached match point, he just could not go on and conceded a walkover.
National singles coach Tey Seu Bock was sad with the turn of events but applauded Chong Wei for staying on as long as possible on court.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=wYPBmujEB6o
“In between the breaks, Chong Wei told us that the heat was making it tough for him but promised to try his best to stay focused,” said Seu Bock.
“In the decider, Chong Wei was already feeling the stiffness in the legs but he did not give up. After the first cramp, he did not want to concede a walkover because he did not want people to think that it was an excuse.
“He also said that after observing Lin Dan’s performance, he could still go for the title. After the second cramps came, he still wanted to continue but his legs just could not hold on,” he said.
Two years ago, Chong Wei also came very close to nicking the world title. But Lin Dan stage a remarkable comeback to win it at Wembley. With his second disappointment in the final, Malaysia’s hope for a elusive world title continues. – TheStar
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