Chong Wei wins fourth All England title, hints not retiring until 2018
Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei prepares to play a return during the mens singles final between Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei and China's Shi Yuqi at the All England Open Badminton Championships in Birmingham, England, Sunday, March 12, - AP Photo/Rui Viera
National badminton supremo, Datuk Lee Chong Wei clinched his fourth All England title after he defeated China's Shu Yuqi at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham tonight.
The 33-year-old Chong Wei, playing his seventh All-England final, wasted no time for yet another defeat as he ramped up a 21-12, 21-10 win over the Chinese player.
Chong Wei was at ease as he swiftly demonstrated clean skills in 45 minutes, much to the delight of his fans at the arena.
A jubilant Chong Wei said that All England was his all-time favourite championship.
"This is my favourite championship because I feel like playing at home every time I see action here. The fans have been great," said Chong Wei, when met after the match.
"Thanks to all my fans, first time I am seeing so many people (supporters) in the final.
Without no hesitation, Chong Wei also promised to return in the All England in Glasgow, Scotland in 2018.
Chong Wei had won the title in 2011, 2012 and 2014 was expected to face his arch rival and defending champion Lin Dan from China in the final but all expectations fell flat when the former world number one unexpectedly lost to Shi Yuqi in the semifinal on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Malaysian mixed doubles pair Chan Peng Soon/Goh Liu Ying only managed the runners-up spots as they lost 21-18, 19-21, 16-21 to Lu Kai/Huang Yaqiong from China.
It was the first final for the duo who had never gone past the semi-final stage.
No Malaysian mixed doubles pair has won the mixed doubles title although a combination of David Choong from Malaysia and June White from England had won the title in 1953.
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