Lin on track for world title after blistering semi
Chinese ace looks for a repeat of his Olympic feat when he faces Malaysia's Lee again today
Chinese superstar Lin Dan stormed into the final of the world championships to set up a dream clash against old rival Lee Chong-Wei of Malaysia today.
It will be the first time the two stars play each other since their memorable encounter at the London Olympic Games final, where Lin prevailed in three games at Wembley Arena.
After overcoming second seed Chen Long in the quarter-finals on Friday, Lin put on a master class yesterday, beating eighth seed Nguyen Tien Minh of Vietnam 21-17, 21-15.
Lee had a tougher test but his 20-22, 21-13, 21-15 victory over third seed Du Pengyu of China proved the Malaysian ace is still in top form as he chases his first world title since losing to Lin in London two years ago.
Lin has been magnificent and I don't think Lee has much of a chance
China coach Li Yongbo was surprised by the performance of 30-year-old Lin, who is ranked just 286 in the world after taking almost a year off since London. "He really is in a class of his own ... he is simply a genius," said Li, who led China to a clean sweep of all five gold medals in London.
"Lin is also very focused in training despite his age. Once he decided to come back, he has been fully committed to giving his best. Our younger players have a lot to learn from him."