NEW DELHI: Badminton world number one Datuk Lee Chong Wei plans to end his India jinx at the Commonwealth Games, boosted by a narrow victory over fierce rival Lin Dan at the Japan Open last week.
Chong Wei is the defending men’s singles champion, but has a poor record in India, failing to win either the Indian Open or the World Championships last year.
“I am not one who believes in previous records and things like that,” he told Indian media on his arrival late Friday.
“I always look forward to giving my best in every tournament I participate in. India is one of the few places I have not been able to win a title,” he added.
“I want to change that record now. Hopefully the Commonwealth Games will help me set the record straight.”
Chong Wei’s key threat here is likely to come from compatriot Muhammad Hafiz Hashim, who won the Commonwealth singles crown in 2002 at Manchester.
But the world’s best player in top form heading into the Games having won the Japan Open late Sunday, overcoming China’s Lin in a tight three-set final.
“That win over Lin was very satisfying.
“I was losing to him often before that memorable win last Sunday,” said Chong Wei.
“Some of his strokes are to be seen to be believed.”
The men’s singles competition in Delhi gets underway on Oct 9, with the tournament kicking off with the mixed team heats tomorrow. — AFP