Lee Chong Wei sounds out Rio Olympics warning in crushing Chen Long at China Open
Malaysian badminton star had earlier beaten Lin Dan, showing he is right back to his best
Former world number one Lee Chong Wei's hopes of finally winning an Olympic badminton gold medal glistened in Fuzhou on Sunday after he crushed top seed Chen Long of China 21-15, 21-11 in the men's singles final at the US$700,000 China Open.
The 33-year-old Lee had beaten "Super Dan" Lin Dan in the semi-finals and he was all business as he ended a 50-minute contest against Chen to become only the third Malaysian singles player to win on Chinese soil.
Chong Wei is certainly back to his best after going through uncertain times over the last few months. This will put him in the right frame of mind ahead of the Olympic Games in Rio
Wong Choong Hann won the men's singles title in 2002 while Lee's wife Wong Mew Choo pulled off the feat in 2007 when she became the first Malaysian woman to win in China.
The only Malaysian doubles pair to win the title on Chinese soil are brothers Razif and Jalani Sidek in 1989.
Malaysian coach Tey Seu Bock said Lee stuck to the plan and was rewarded with his efforts.
"His attacking and defensive game was solid. Everything worked so well for him. I am so happy for him," said Tey.
"Chong Wei is certainly back to his best after going through uncertain times over the last few months. This will put him in the right frame of mind ahead of the Olympic Games in Rio next year."