Is it Chen Long’s turn to rule? Gold medallist draws inspiration from Lin Dan-Lee Chong Wei rivalry

China’s newly minted Olympic champion Chen Long has hailed the rivalry between the man he defeated in the Rio men’s singles final and his compatriot Lin Dan, suggesting that he himself is ready to start a fresh dynasty.

The 27-year-old Chen won the gold medal on Saturday with a 21-18, 21-18 victory over Malaysia’s Lee Chong Wei, who in the past eight years has battled Lin in one of sport’s great rivalries.

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Two-time world and All England champion Chen said he has followed and been inspired by the two greats since the 2008 Beijing Olympics, when Lin scored the first of two Games finals victories over Lee.

“I started watching them in the Beijing Olympics,” said Chen. “Before that, Lin had rivalry with [Indonesia’s] Taufik Hidayat and then Lee Chong Wei came along.

“I was really inspired by them. They are such great champions and great role models for the youngsters. I wanted to be like them so I’m glad I can win today.

“Hopefully I can be like them,” said a humble world number two, who has already achieved much in global badminton.