Chong Wei set to beat anyone in his way

LEE Chong Wei is unfazed by the World Championships draw released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old, bound for the competition in Glasgow, Scotland on Aug 21-27, believes he must overcome any obstacle to claim the elusive title.

“To become world champion, I must defeat anybody in my path. I have failed on several occasions, so there is nothing wrong in trying harder this time,” he said.

“Most importantly, I have to prepare myself and stay hungry for success.

“Prior to the draw, we knew that this would be my toughest World Championships because China have got four men’s singles players.

“Now that the draw is out, I will take things one step at a time. I will discuss with my coaches to see what is best for me,” said Chong Wei yesterday after attending the BA of Malaysia’s (BAM) first monthly assembly at the Academy Badminton Malaysia (ABM) in Bukit Kiara.

At the draw event held at the BWF office in Naza Tower, Chong Wei who reached the World Championships final in 2011, 2013 and 2015, was drawn in the bottom half alongside Olympic and world champion Chen Long, Lin Dan and Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen.

Should the Malaysian clear the first three rounds, he is slated to take on Chen Long in the quarter-finals and Axelsen in the last four stage.

There is also the possibility of a titanic showdown with his nemesis and five-time world champion Lin Dan, should both men make it to the final.

Chong Wei will open his campaign against France’s Brice Leverdez in the first round.

The three-time Olympic Games silver medallist said despite feeling anxious to clinch his maiden world crown, he must stay calm and focused.

“Pressure will always be there but it’s normal for players like me. I have to stay calm and focus on my preparation as there are only two more weeks left to the World Championships.”