Datuk Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan Elected to 2023 BWF Hall of Fame

By: Michelle Liew

National badminton legend Datuk Lee Chong Wei and long-time friend and rival from China, Lin Dan, were elected to the 2023 Badminton World Federation (BWF) Hall of Fame.

BWF in a statement announced that two badminton legends who were the most dominant men's singles players during their primetime have been selected in the world governing body's list of exceptional players.

The announcement ceremony is scheduled for May 26 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Center (KLCC).

BWF President Poul-Erik Hoyer who praised both players for their impact in the competition said the two players will be remembered for more than their achievements and successes in the tournament.

“Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan were among the foremost ambassadors of badminton over a major part of the last two decades,” said Hoyer.

“With their outstanding performances, they drew whole generations of fans to the sport.

“They both richly deserve to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.”

Chong Wei, 41 and Lin Dan, 40, who started their careers at the international level in the early 2000s, forged a name in the badminton arena until they decided to retire in 2019 and 2020 respectively.

Chong Wei, who retired due to health problems, has won 47 BWF Super Series/World Tour titles during his 19 years of involvement and held the world number one title for 349 weeks.

The Penang-born player is Malaysia's most successful badminton player, with three Olympic silver medals in Beijing 2008, London 2012 and Rio 2016 as well as three world championship runner-up titles in 2011, 2013 and 2015.

On the other hand, Lin Dan has won two Olympic champion titles and five world championships.