Matches That Redefined Badminton History: Badminton is one sport that has had its share of epic matches that have displayed such a blend of speed, skill, emotion, and endurance that the players in those matches have completely changed the way people now view the game. There have been huge stakes in these badminton matches, and the lightning-fast rallies and the level of smashes that are required to win matches truly test the determination of the player. Some of these matches have stood out due to the exceptional skills, intense level of rivalries, and the significance they hold historically.
These are the five epic matches that redefined badminton history:
Lin Dan vs Lee Chong Wei
When: 2012 London Olympics Final
This was the badminton match where two of the top players in the world went for the gold medal. The atmosphere was filled with pressure and intense emotions, along with a different level of tactical brilliance altogether. Finally, Lin Dan was the one to win the match, and it solidified his legacy. He secured a 15-21, 21-10 and 21-19 victory and it is considered ot be one of the great badminton finals in the Olympics.
Lin Dan vs Lee Chong Wei
When: 2011 BWF World Championship Final
This match was the one where the two badminton legends had set the stage for their legendary rivalry. Lin Dan was the one who won the match by securing 20-22, 21-14, and 23-21. This was a year before they met again at the Olympics. This match proved that the level of mental toughness that is required to excel in the sport is truly an incredible amount.
Carolina Marin vs. P.V. Sindhu
When: 2016 Rio Olympics Final
Cariolina Marins’ attacking style is notably fierce, and this is what led to her win in the intense battle for gold against India’s P.V. Sindhu. This win made the first European woman to have won an Olympic badminton singles title, and the match between the two greatest women badminton players has truly redefined badminton history with Marin securing a 19-21, 21-12, and 21-15 victory.
Taufik Hidayat vs. Shon Seung-mo
When: 2004 Athens Olympics Final
This was one match that redefined badminton history, as Taufik Hidayat defeated South Korea’s Shon Seung-mo, won the 2004 Athens Olympics, and brought the men’s singles gold to Indonesia. His playing style is characterized by flair and elegance. He is creative and uses artistry in the way he plays the matches and has changed the way people view the game by showing everyone that is more than just speed and power to the game, it is also about individual style and a level of precision and control with a blend of his natural talent.
Viktor Axelsen vs Chen Long
When: 2020 Tokyo Olympics Final (Played in 2021)
The dominance that was displayed by Viktor Axelsen in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Final cannot be understated. It marked a completely new era for the sport of badminton. In this match, Alelsen won by 21-15,21-12 in straight games. a nd became the first European to hold Olympic Gold in over 25 years, inspiring fans all over the world.
READ MORE: Top 4 Countries With Most Consecutive FIFA World Cup Qualifications
