China badminton great Lin Dan ‘too old’ and Rio Olympic champion Chen Long has climbed his mountain
Early exits at Indonesian Open continue poor run of form in build-up to world championships and Asian Games
China great Lin Dan and Rio Olympic champion Chen Long are under fire after poor performances at the Indonesian Open.
Thirty-four-year-old Lin, who won back-to-back golds at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games, is now considered “too old” by the mainland media, while fans slammed Chen for “lacking fighting spirit” after his second consecutive early exit in the world tour.
“Even the greatest player cannot defy the attack of age,” said Tencent Sports, referring to Lin’s defeat. “Lin certainly wants to win but he is not the same player.
“Maybe he is still hanging on to his hey day but the world now belongs to much younger and more energetic players.”
Another fan said on Sina Sports: “With age not on his side any more, Lin will have to get used to first round exits.”
