'Super Dan' back in the swing after lengthy break

Exactly one year after winning the Olympic gold medal in London last summer, Lin Dan returned to the international stage yesterday when he began his campaign at the world championships in Guangzhou.

"Super Dan" has hardly been seen on a badminton court since his success in London, but showed no signs of rustiness yesterday, as he thrashed Sattawat Pongnairat of the United States in just 27 minutes, reeling off a quick-fire 21-6, 21-9 victory in the opening round.

"I didn't slow down the pace at any point," Lin said. "My coach just told me to make sure I got to 21 points and that was my main goal."

This is only Lin's second major tournament since he won the Olympic gold on August 5, 2012. He also took part in the Asia championships in April, but withdrew after the third round through injuries. Lin needed a wild card to enter the world championships as his ranking has dropped to 100.

Lin saluted the partisan 6,000-strong crowd at the Guangzhou Indoor Stadium after yesterday's victory, but played down his chances of retaining the title he won in London in 2011. The world championships were not held last year because they would have clashed with the Olympics.

"I have spent a lot of time with my family over the past year and haven't played much. So I am really grateful for the overwhelming support I have received here. I know the fans would like to see me reach the final," said Lin.