Lauding Lin

“We knew this day would arrive, a heavy moment in our lives. You pulled down the curtain gracefully. You were king where we fought so proudly. Your final wave, all four disappear, within the hush of silent tears.”

Malaysian great Lee Chong Wei pays a poetic tribute to Lin Dan on Twitter

“Your perseverance, resilience and stubbornness have inspired so many people! Badminton is just one part of life, I believe your future will be even brighter. Wish you all the best!”

Cai Yun, China’s former doubles Olympic champion, on Weibo

“He’s a legend of the sport and when you see him on court you can tell he sees himself as a champion. The next generation of players will be missing out on seeing this incredible guy on court. I count myself lucky to have had that opportunity to not just watch him play and be a part of the same draw as him but also beat him once. It’s definitely something that I’d brag about to my grandkids.”

India’s world No 13 Sai Praneeth, speaking to ESPN.com

“I want to be like Lin Dan and Lee Chong Wei, who ruled the world of badminton for a long, long time. They don’t only boast longevity, but they have always displayed top quality to entertain their fans.”

Current world No 1 Kento Momota of Japan, speaking in 2018

“Lin Dan was extraordinary, a player that possessed fantastic technique, court coverage and mental strength. He is the complete shuttler in every sense.” Indonesian legend Hariyanto Arbi in an article published on JawaPos.com

“It was my dream to be in a world final. But it is unbelievable to beat Lin Dan. I have been watching him for years. Chen Long and Lin Dan have won all the major championships and they inspire me ... I hope this win will inspire others.”

Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen after defeating Lin to win the 2017 worlds