Lee-der all right
World No. 1 bags record sixth Japan Open with win over Jorgensen
Lee Chong Wei is now the most successful men’s singles shuttler in Japan Open badminton history. The Malaysian world No. 1 edged Jan O Jorgensen of Denmark 21-18, 15-21, 21-16 in a thrilling 70-minute final in Tokyo. It was Chong Wei’s 44th Superseries title and 65th overall in his glittering career. “I am so proud to win my sixth Japan Open title. I cherish this record and I hope no one will break it,” said Chong Wei, who was also the winner in 2007 and 2010 and then from 2012-2014.
KUALA LUMPUR: Lee Chong Wei hopes no shuttler will break his record six Japan Open titles.
The world No. 1 became the most successful men’s singles player at the championships when he battled his way to a 21-18, 15-21, 21-16 win over Jan O Jorgensen of Denmark in a thrilling 70-minute final in Tokyo yesterday.
It was Chong Wei’s 17th win in 18 meetings over Jorgensen, but one of his hardest in years. Chong Wei’s only loss to the Dane was at the China Open first round in 2009.
Three-time Olympic silver medallist Chong Wei was happy with his achievement.
“I am so proud to win my sixth Japan Open title. I cherish this record and I hope no one will break it,” said Chong Wei, who was also the winner in 2007 and 2010 and then from 2012-2014.
“I saw Jorgensen’s match against Son Wanho (of South Korea) in the semi-finals (on Saturday) and I knew he was in-form. He played well but I was equally determined not to lose - not after winning every single match against him for the last seven years,” added Chong Wei, who will be 34 on Oct 21.
Chong Wei was slow off the starting blocks, but he managed to step on the gas to take the opener.
Determined not to lose again, Jorgensen came charging back like a bull in the second game.
The Dane kept the heat on Chong Wei throughout the game, often slamming down lightning-quick returns at the front court. He was rewarded for his determination with a 21-15 win.
It looked as though Jorgensen would emerge victorious after taking a 6-2 lead in the decider. But Chong Wei fought back to lead 17-16. It was at this juncture that Jorgensen made a few costly errors and Chong Wei pulled away to celebrate his 44th Superseries title and 65th overall.
Chong Wei said that he would skip the Korean Open starting in Seoul on Wednesday to concentrate on the Denmark and French Open Superseries in October.
“Many top players took a rest after the Olympic Games (in Rio de Janeiro in August), but I obliged my sponsor Yonex’s request to play in Japan. Now, I need a rest before playing in Denmark and France,” said Chong Wei, who took home US$22,500 (RM92,700).