KUALA LUMPUR: Lee Chong Wei and China's Lin Dan, the two names synonymous with the greatest rivalry in badminton over nearly two decades, were today officially inducted into the Badminton World Federation (BWF) Hall of Fame.
Speaking at a special press conference here at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Lin Dan, a five-time world champion, and two-time Olympic gold medallist, said: "There has been no precedent set for a rivalry such as this in the last 20 years.
"I feel very proud to be inducted in this Hall of Fame, very special because I now join the ranks of my fellow countrymen like Cai Yun and Fu Hai Feng, who I consider my brothers."
Chong Wei, the King of Super Series, with a total of 69 overall titles throughout his senior career, added: "This rivalry kept us both motivated throughout the years. Even when we lost, we wanted to try and win it back so much.
"That's what kept us going."
Both Chong Wei and Lin Dan, who hung up their racquets in 2019 and 2020 respectively, felt extremely honoured to be recognised in the world of badminton, and they hope they will each be able to inspire their country's younger generation to follow in their footsteps.
Looking at the Paris Olympics next year, Chong Wei, who is also a three-time Olympics silver medallist, noted: "As most Malaysians know, I will be the team manager for the national badminton squad at the Paris Olympics next year.
"I truly hope that our success story will help inspire our players to give their best, and hopefully win Malaysia the first gold medal."
Lin Dan, also believes the Paris Olympics next year will be a close affair among the current top players.
"Personally, I feel the Olympics next year will be very stressful for the top players. I really hope they will perform to their best."
For the record, Chong Wei now joins the likes of Wong Peng Soon, Tan Yee Khan, Ong Poh Lim, Ng Boon Bee, Eddy Choong, and David Choong, as the few Malaysians to be inducted in the BWF Hall of Fame.