The Badminton Blog!

Danish Open Analysis

2008-10-21T11:22:00.002+08:00

Finally over my Olympic disappointment. Happy to say that The Badminton Blog will now continue its coverage of all tournaments around the world!

Okay, maybe not all around the world.

Anyway, the Danish Open is upon us! Oh my. I remember blogging about the Danish Open last year. Who could forget the excitement of the Malaysian number 1 WD pair Wong Pei Tty and Chin Eei Hui defeat the World Number 1s? Oh wait. That was the Frech Open. My bad.

This year's Danish Open will be less exciting, due to the fact that we don't have an Olympic Games and Thomas Cup in the horizon. Nevertheless, it'll be interesting to watch for a few reasons. Can Koo Kien Keat and Tan Boon Heong continue their run from Macau? Can they prove that they are once again, a force to be reckoned with? They certainly have caused the Malaysians lots of grief, many blaming them for Malaysia's 3-2 defeat to China in the Thomas Cup and their underperformance in the Olympic Games. (Me, I blame them for losing my PAWs in both the Thomas Cup and the Olympics :-) )

What about the split super pairing of Fu Haifeng and Cai Yun? I'll certainly look back at that pairing with a bit of nostalgia. Now they both appear to have taken over as the senior player in their respective pairings, Fu being paired with Shen Ye and Cai being paired with Chen Xu. Fu Haifeng must be crying no fair how Cai and Shen Ye have been seeded 6th while his pair remains unseeded. Nevertheless, both pairs are to be treated with the utmost caution.

On the other hand, is the era of the Sony here? No, not the Japanese brand. The player, Sony Dwi Kuncoro. He defeated Chong Wei enroute to winning the Japan Open title, while defeating Chen Jin in the China Open finals. Two back to back Super series victories. No mean feat!

Then we have the Chinese women singles players. Can they regain their strength and dominance after the departure of Zhang Ning and Xie Xingfang? It now falls onto the shoulders of Lu Lan, Zhu Lin, Wang Yihan and Wang Lin. On the other hand, we have Maria Kristin Yulianti who appears to be emerging as the new Susi.

In the men single's department, we have the two Danish homecrowd favorites Peter Gade and Kenneth Jonassen, who are both by no means young. It appears that both the world number 1 and number 2, Chong Wei and Lin Dan have opted out of this tournament. We also have super veteran Wong Choong Hann, now outside the BAM, playing. Can he overcome the dissapointment of losing to the unheralded Hsieh Yu Hsin of Taiwan in Beijing?

This Denmark Open will certainly be an interesting barometer to gauge the landscape of the future badminton scene!

Barisan Nasional’s silver medal - Letter to the Malaysiakini editor

2008-08-21T20:09:00.002+08:00

The following article has also been sent to Malaysiakini as a letter to the editor.

As a Malaysian, I avidly followed the path of our shuttler Lee Chong Wei in the ongoing 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, making sure that I watched him play whenever I possible could. I personally cheered in delight and began celebrating with my housemates when Chong Wei beat Korean shuttler Hyun Il in the semifinals and assured Malaysia of a medal for the first time in 12 years. I had never felt prouder in my life when the Malaysian flag was raised in the presentation ceremony as I wiped tears of pride and joy. But my tears of pride and joy quickly turned into feelings of extreme anger, disappointment, and disgust when I not only saw Chong Wei, but Malaysia’s medal paraded and flashed around a Barisan Nasional function in an election campaign, manipulated and exploited for votes. This ultimately begs the question: Who does the medal belong to? Malaysia… or Barisan Nasional?

For those who do not know which function I am referring to, I direct you to Malaysiakini’s video entitled ‘Arif Eyes a Slim Win’. Here we see a Malaysian sportsman campaigning for Barisan Nasional as he not only attends the function in support of a candidate, but plays an exhibition match with him in public. However, this is hardly a new occurrence. In badminton alone, we have seen Malaysian shuttlers Tan Boon Heong and Koo Kien Keat campaign in previous by-elections last year, exploiting their fame when they won the All England title, while Chong Wei himself went to campaign in Gopeng in the March General Elections.

Malaysian sportspeople should serve Malaysia first and foremost, and should only focus on serving their country in the sporting arena to bring glory to their nation. It is the rakyat who pays and supports them in their training and development as a player. Hence, their first and only duty, should be to Malaysia. But to Chong Wei I ask this question: Is your first and only duty, to Malaysia, or to Barisan Nasional? This… is the RM300,000 question. Sportspeople should not misuse their fame which they acquired through the sponsorship and support of the rakyat for political reasons. Their duty is to the country, not Barisan Nasional! On the other hand, I am absolutely disgusted by how Barisan Nasional exploited the fame of Malaysia’s sportspeople for their own, selfish political reasons. Do you know no shame?

While the use of Chong Wei for political campaign is in itself a big misuse of the government’s discretion and power, this is not what incensed me the most. What infuriated me the most was when the medal, Malaysia’s medal, was parade and flashed around in a Barisan Nasional function, blatantly politicizing the medal. Of course Chong Wei owns this medal, but this medal also rightfully belongs to every single Malaysian, and it would be fair to say that every single Malaysian owns a part of this medal. But instead, that very medal that brought tears of joy and pride to my eyes, gets taken to a political ceremony, gets paraded and flashed around as political fodder for Barisan Nasional, and for that, I feel ashamed, disgusted, and sadness. Ashamed because what united us, united all Malaysians no matter what creed, religion or color, no matter what political affiliations we had, as we stood together cheering our athlete on, hoping for him, praying for him, is snatched from us and instead, manipulated for the selfish political means of a single political party. What used to be my pure and uninhibited pride and joy is now tainted with the filth of politicking and campaigning, robbing me of any prior pride or joy that I previously felt so strongly after our triumph. Disgusted, because of the extent of which the Barisan Nasional camp is willing to go to win an election. To steal the pride of our nation, manipulating and selling it for votes, that is the biggest crime here. Finally, sadness because of the state my beloved country is in. Sadness, because the medal that once belonged to Malaysia, or so I foolishly thought when the Malaysian flag was hoisted, now belongs to Barisan Nasional. Sadness, because I can no longer feel proud of the medal, because it no longer belongs to me, or my country. Sadness, because I have to tell my overseas friends that Malaysia came back from Beijing empty handed. Sadness, because the line separating politics and sports is now so blurred, that it becomes OK for sporting heroes and sporting achievements to be utilized, to be used, to be manipulated for the selfish political gain of a single political party. For that, I feel the upmost sorrow and grief.

My my… just far down the drain has my beloved nation gone?

LIVE COMMENTARY LEE CHONG WEI VS. LIN DAN

2008-08-17T20:02:00.027+08:00

Most recent comment first.

Congratulations to Lin Dan the 2008 Beijing Olympics Gold Medalist.

12 Gold medal points to Lin.

19-8.

18-6. Lin Dan is playing the best badminton I have ever seen anyone play. Even better than Joko in 1991 All England finals.

16-4. Lin Dan is just too good today.

14-4. Lin pulls closer and closer to that gold.

13-4. Lin leads.

13-3. Lin is too good today.

11-3? Hope perhaps?

11-2. Too little too late?

11-1. I don't think Lee can recover.

8-0. Is it over for the Malaysian?

6-0. Lee looks out of answers.

Lin leads 4-0 in the second game. Uh oh for Lee.

Lin Dan wins first game.

Lin Dan leads 17-10. Chong Wei must be calm and not panick.

Sorry for the slight delay. The score now is 14-8 to Lin Dan

Lin in superb form. 2-0 to China.

And it starts. A very long rally starts the game. 1-0 Lin

Warming up. Games are about to start. Stay tuned.

The players are intoduced and are walking onto court.

Medal ceremony over. We are now waiting for the players to come onto court.

The medal ceremony for the previous Mixed Doubles match is underway.

Cheerleading performance now. We expect the players to come out later.

The head to head records of both these players are 8-5, with Lin Dan having won 8 times. The last match they played was won by Lee at the Thomas Cup semifinals.

We are still waiting for the match to start. It is currently the Mixed Doubles finals. The Men's Singles finals will start when this finishes.

Results for Day 9 (17/8/08)

2008-08-17T08:44:00.002+08:00

MIXED DOUBLES

HE Hanbin / YU Yang (CHN) bt LIMPELE Flandy / MARISSA Vita (INA)

19-21 , 21-17 , 23-21

LEE Hyojung / LEE Yongdae (KOR) bt LILIYANA / WIDIANTO Nova (INA)

21-11 , 21-17

MEN'S SINGLES
LIN Dan (CHN) bt LEE Chong Wei (MAS) 21-12 , 21-8

Day 9 Predictions (17/8/08)

2008-08-17T08:37:00.003+08:00

This is the final day of the badminton section of the Olympics!

Nova Widianto/Lilyana Natsir vs. Lee Yong Dae/Lee Hyo Jung
Both pairs were stretched to 3 sets yesterday night. The Indonesians managed to knock out the Chinese while the Koreans managed to beat the other Indonesian pair. Both had impressive performances yesterday, but I was more impressed with the Koreans. I'd say the Koreans would win in 3 sets, with the 3rd set going the distance, the Koreans claiming their first badminton gold of the 2008 Olympics.

Flandy Limpele/Vita Marrissa vs. He Hanbin/Yu Yang
Both pairs were beaten in two closely fought semifinals. I believe the bronze medal will go to the Chinese, as their power and explosiveness will pull them through. Nevertheless, expect a close match; this definitely would be a 3 setter

Lin Dan vs. Lee Chong Wei
Both entire nations will be watching as the two Goliaths of the badminton world descend to the court to claim the ultimate glory: the Men's Singles Gold Medal. A dream final, an organisers dream. Both players have been extremely impressive in this tournament, and the winner of this match not only determines who would be carved into the stone of badminton immortality, but who would be the world number 1. There is everything to gain and every to lose from this match, and expect the whole nation to be glued to this match. Very hard to predict who would actually win this match, and I wouldn't endevour to do so. 50-50 in all ways.

Results for Day 8 (16/8/08)

2008-08-16T10:04:00.002+08:00

WOMEN'S SINGLES
YULIANTI Maria Kristin (INA) bt LU Lan (CHN) 11-21 , 21-13 , 21-15
ZHANG Ning (CHN) bt XIE Xingfang (CHN) 21-12 , 10-21 , 21-18

MEN'S SINGLES
CHEN Jin (CHN) bt LEE Hyunil (KOR) 21-16 , 12-21 , 21-14

MEN'S DOUBLES

LEE Jaejin / HWANG Jiman (KOR) bt PAASKE Lars / RASMUSSEN Jonas (DEN)

13-21 , 21-18 , 21-17

KIDO Markis / SETIAWAN Hendra (INA) bt CAI Yun / FU Haifeng (CHN)

12-21 , 21-11 , 21-16

MIXED DOUBLES

LILIYANA / WIDIANTO Nova (INA) bt HE Hanbin / YU Yang (CHN)

15-21 , 21-11 , 23-21

LEE Hyojung / LEE Yongdae (KOR) bt LIMPELE Flandy / MARISSA Vita (INA)

21-9 , 12-21 , 21-17

Day 8 Predictions 16/8/08

2008-08-16T09:56:00.002+08:00

Lu Lan vs. Maria Kristin Yulianti
Maria has had a dream run this tournament, and now she faces the consistent Lu Lan in a bronze medal match. I think Lu holds the upper hand in this match, but who knows, Maria could spring another one of the many surprises she has sprung all throughout this tournament.

Jonas Rasmussen/Lars Paaske vs. Hwang Ji Man/Lee Jae Jin
I think the Danes should win this on. Mainly because I have been more impressed with their play compared to the Koreans. The Koreans yesterday were demolished by the Chinese, while the Danes, while simmilarly demolished, performed much better. If it goes to 3 sets, the Koreans will hold the fitness upper hand, but I have a feeling the third set won't come.

Xie Xingfang vs. Zhang Ning
Seed 1 versus seed 2 in the finals. What a match this will be, and what enormous stakes there. For Zhang Ning, the prospect of defending her title would be a spectacular thing to do, while Xie would want her first Olympic medal to be a Gold. I think Xie holds the thinnest of upper hands, but Zhang has been also very very impressive. Hard to say really, but one things for certain, this will be a hell of a finals.

Chen Jin vs. Lee Hyun Il
Chen Jin expectedly lost yesterday. Hyun Il on the other hand, put up a very tough fight against Chong Wei. I think Hyun Il holds the upper hand in this match, but then again, it is very hard to say who wins what in the Olympics. Chen Jin's power and Hyun Il's precision will come into extreme scrutiny, and don't expect the crowd to go easy on Hyun Il.

Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan vs. Cai Yun/Fu Haifeng
This would also be another hell of a match. The crowd will be behind Cai and Fu, while Markis and Hendra's explosiveness will help them a lot. Both have been very very impressive, and really, it is very hard to say who would win. Definitely will go into 3 sets, with the Indonesians going in with the slight edge.

Results for Day 7 (15/8/08)

2008-08-15T08:17:00.004+08:00

MEN'S DOUBLES
KIDO Markis / SETIAWAN Hendra (INA) bt PAASKE Lars / RASMUSSEN Jonas (DEN) 21-19 , 21-17
CAI Yun / FU Haifeng (CHN) bt LEE Jaejin / HWANG Jiman (KOR) 22-20 , 21-8

WOMEN'S SINGLES
XIE Xingfang (CHN) bt LU Lan (CHN) 7-21 , 21-10 , 21-12

ZHANG Ning (CHN) bt YULIANTI Maria Kristin (INA)

21-15 , 21-15

MEN'S SINGLES
LEE Chong Wei (MAS) bt LEE Hyunil (KOR) 21-18 , 13-21 , 21-13

LIN Dan (CHN) bt CHEN Jin (CHN)

21-12 , 21-18

WOMEN'S DOUBLES
DU Jing / YU Yang (CHN) bt LEE Hyojung / LEE Kyungwon (KOR) 21-15 , 21-13

WEI Yili / ZHANG Yawen (CHN) bt MAEDA Miyuki / SUETSUNA Satoko (JPN)

21-17 , 21-10

Day 7 Predictions 15/8/08

2008-08-15T07:58:00.002+08:00

Ladies and gentlemen! We have the massive 7th day! Here are my prediction for today!

Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan vs. Lars Paaske/Jonas Rasmussen
I have sat here and typed and deleted and retyped my prediction for this match. The thing is, it is very hard to predict who will win between both of this pairs. The Indonesians were impressive in their first time ever defeat of Malaysians Koo and Tan, while being not so impressive in their 3 set edge against Guo and Xie. The Danes were impressive right until the last match, where they were unexpectedly stretched by the Polish pair. On paper Kido and Setiawan will win, I have been extremely impressed with their explosive power, stamina, and consistancy, but this is the semifinals of the Olympics, their biggest tournament ever. Paaske and Rasmussen have the experience to back it up, and their ability to move the shuttle to all sorts of impressive places have well, impressed me. Ultimately I think the Danes will prevail, their bucketloads of experience will pull them through, but expect it to be a very very tight match.

Xie Xingfang vs. Lu Lan
Ask Li Yongbo. He said Xie Xingfang. Thats that. :D

Maria Kristin Yulianti vs. Zhang Ning
Both players were stretched in their last match, Maria playing a phenomenal three game match against Indian Saina Nehwal while Zhang edging the in form Pi Hongyan, barely. The Chinese defending Champion, in my opinion, obviously holds the upper hand, but Maria is not the normal Maria. She is Maria on fire. So can Maria on fire end Zhang's hopes of defending her title? I think not, but it would be a hell of a match.

Hwang Ji Man/ Lee Jae Jin vs. Cai Yun/Fu Haifeng
I believe Cai and Fu have not been tested so far this tournament. Apart from the slumping and off peak Jens Eriksen and Martin Luungard Hansen, they have not been against any strong opposition. Hwang and Lee have been impressive, and although they have never beaten this Chinese pair before, I think tonight they will come closer than ever in beating them. Expect a tight tight match, but ultimately I think the Koreans will prevail. Hard to tell though...

Lee Hyun Il vs. Lee Chong Wei
Wow wow wow. Lee Chong Wei finds himself in the semifinals of an Olympic Games. He was extremely impressive against Sony Dwi Kuncoro yesterday, who could do nothing but watch himself get demolished. Hyun Il on the other hand, in my opinion, is a surprise semifinalist. I didn't expect Bao to be beaten. Bao, I think, dug his own grave. He played marvelously, but kept failing at the last shot. The perfect smash went out, the perfect net shot went back into his court. Both have met each other twice this year, spliting both wins. Li Mao, Lee's former coach, which was embroiled in a contriversial country exchange, is now Hyun Il's coach. How much more mouth watering can this be? I think Chong Wei would prevail, and go to the finals of the 2008 Beijing Olympics to meet reigning world champion and current world number 1 Lin Dan in what will sure to be a spectacular finale to the tournament.

Lin Dan vs. Chen Jin
Don't look at me! Look at Li Yongbo! He said Lin Dan! Thats that. Besides, Chen owes Lin a big debt, for it is his deliberate defeat that allowed him to get to the Olympics.

Lee Hyo Jung/ Lee Kyung Won vs. Du Jing/Yu Yang (GOLD MEDAL MATCH!)
The finale. Crunch time. Will China's dominance in this field be broken? Hyo Jung and Kyung Won have been extremely impressive, while Du and Yu similarly have been impressive. The Chinese's stamina might come into issue here, as they were stretched in their last match. I think Hyo Jung and Kyung Won might just take this one, as I have been more impressed with their performance. But it would be tight. Very tight.

Results for Day 6 - 14/8/08

2008-08-14T08:14:00.002+08:00

MEN'S SINGLES
CHEN Jin (CHN) bt HSIEH Yu-Hsing (TPE) 21-8 , 21-14
LEE Chong Wei (MAS) bt KUNCORO Sony Dwi (INA) 21-9 , 21-11

LEE Hyunil (KOR) bt BAO Chunlai (CHN)

23-21 , 21-11

LIN Dan (CHN) bt GADE Peter Hoeeg (DEN)

21-13 , 21-16

MIXED DOUBLES
HE Hanbin / YU Yang (CHN) bt KOSTIUCZYK Nadiezda / MATEUSIAK Robert (POL) 22-20 , 23-21
LILIYANA / WIDIANTO Nova (INA) bt PRAPAKAMOL Sudket / THOUNGTHONGKAM Saralee (THA) 21-13 , 21-19
LEE Hyojung / LEE Yongdae (KOR) bt EMMS Gail / ROBERTSON Nathan (GBR) 21-19 , 21-12

Day 6 Predictions 14/8/08

2008-08-14T08:02:00.002+08:00

After the almost complete anhillation of the Malaysian team, Lee Chong Wei is left as the sole survivor. Again.

Sony Dwi Kuncoro vs. Lee Chong Wei
In ranking terms, Chong Wei is the overwhelming favorite in this match. Head to head terms favor Sony. In my terms, I believe Lee will win, as he is in a simmillar position, again, where he is the sole survivor of the Malaysian team and is forced to carry the burden of the Malaysian team. He is used to this pressure, and should be able to beat Sony in 2 sets, 3 if neccesary.

Lee Hyun Il vs. Bao Chunlai
A rematch of the Thomas Cup finals three months ago. There, Lee was tamely defeated by Bao. I believe this will be no different. Lee is good, but he is not better than Bao. Bao on the other hand (for once I will not make fun of his lady friends... err... fans) has been impressive as usual, except for the slightly troubled opening match against Kevin Cordon of Guatemala. Bao should be able to wrap it up in 2 sets, but if it goes to 3 sets, I would say they are both evenly matched.

Lin Dan vs. Peter Gade
A very interesting match. On paper, Lin Dan is the absolute favorite to win this match. And I agree, in any other circumstance, no one would have any question who would win. However, this is the Olympics, and the Olympics have been known to produce weird and unpredictable results. Peter can use the pressure on China's golden boy Lin Dan to his advantage, just like how Lee used the pressure in the Thomas Cup semifinals to his advantage. Rattle him in the beginning, and perhaps we might see a fight.

Lee Yong Dae/Lee Hyo Jung vs. Nathan Robertson/Gail Emms
The English pair are coming off a confidence high after beating Gao Ling and Zheng Bo. However, I would say that beating Gao and Zheng isn't a feat in itself, they have been unpredictable and inconsistant lately. The Korean pair on the other hand, has a perfect combination of talent (Yong Dae) and experience (Hyo Jung). However, you don't become a world champion for no reason, and this would be a very closely fought match. The two Lees to prevail in 3.

Results for Day 5 (13/8/08)

2008-08-13T07:44:00.001+08:00

WOMEN'S SINGLES
YULIANTI Maria Kristin (INA) bt NEHWAL Saina (IND) 26-28 , 21-14 , 21-15
XIE Xingfang (CHN) bt XU Huaiwen (GER) 21-19 , 22-20
LU Lan (CHN) bt WONG Mew Choo (MAS) 21-7 , 29-27
ZHANG Ning (CHN) bt PI Hongyan (FRA) 21-8 , 19-21 , 21-19

MEN'S DOUBLES
KIDO Markis / SETIAWAN Hendra (INA) bt KOO Kien Keat / TAN Boon Heong (MAS) 21-16 , 21-18

PAASKE Lars / RASMUSSEN Jonas (DEN) bt LOGOSZ Michal / MATEUSIAK Robert (POL)

17-21 , 21-11 , 21-15

CAI Yun / FU Haifeng (CHN) bt BACH Howard / MALAYTHONG Bob (USA)

21-9 , 21-10
LEE Jaejin / HWANG Jiman (KOR) bt MASUDA Keita / OHTSUKA Tadashi (JPN) 21-12 , 18-21 , 21-9

WOMEN'S DOUBLES
DU Jing / YU Yang (CHN) bt WEI Yili / ZHANG Yawen (CHN) 21-19 , 21-12
LEE Hyojung / LEE Kyungwon (KOR) bt MAEDA Miyuki / SUETSUNA Satoko (JPN) 22-20 , 21-15

Day 5 Predictions 13/8/08

2008-08-13T07:28:00.002+08:00

Woah... After yesterday's excitement and the ups and the downs, today looks to be just as exciting and nerve wrecking. Those with weak heart... you have been warned!

Maria Kristin Yulianti vs. Saina Nehwal
I don't think either player expected to find themselves in the quarterfinals of the Olympics. Maria has had a dream run so far, beating hot favorite Tine Rasmussen. Saina on the other hand, beat veteran Wang Chen in a hotly contested match. Both matches took almost an hour, and both would be tired today. I think Maria holds the upper hand, as she can outpace Saina's movement which at some times, seem sluggish in comparison. Maria in 3 tight tight sets, but this does no take anything away from the achievements of these two wonderful players.

Pi Hongyan vs. Zhang Ning
I believe Pi has the power to beat Zhang Ning, and we have to see whether Zhang is in top form or not. Pi has after all managed to beat Zhang Ning is several collossal matches, the most memorable being the 2007 All England Semifinals marathon that took more than 70 minutes. It will be another marathon match, expect both sides to throw everything at each other. Zhang has immense pressure on her to defend her title, while Pi, in comparison, does not have as much pressure. It will be close, but I will ultimately give it to Zhang in 3 tight sets.

Lu Lan vs. Wong Mew Choo
On paper Lu appears to be the favorite in this match. In reality however, I think Wong holds the upper hand in this match, because of their playing styles. Lu gets frusrated easily when met with pesky runners, which Wong definitely falls into the category of. Wong will run and get anything back, and her endurance and speed will eventually frusrate Lu into making errors. Wong in 2, 3 if neccesary, but Lu is after all, still the favorite on paper.

Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan vs. Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong
Markis and Hendra are the higher ranked pair, but go into this tournament having not won a match against the Malaysians. Ever. All 5 meetings between the pair have gone the way of Koo and Tan. It seems Rexy has the secret to beating this pair. If the Indonesian coaches have managed to fix this error, maybe Markis and Hendra would come closer to winning this match, but I think Koo and Tan should be able to take this in 2 sets.

Stay tuned for more updates!

Results for Day 4 (12/8/08)

2008-08-12T08:11:00.008+08:00

MEN'S SINGLES
LEE Hyunil (KOR) bt ZWIEBLER Marc (GER) 21-13 , 21-11
LEE Chong Wei (MAS) bt NAVICKAS Kestutis (LTU) 21-5 , 21-7
KUNCORO Sony Dwi (INA) bt LANG Ville (FIN) 21-13 , 21-18
BAO Chunlai (CHN) bt WACHA Przemyslaw (POL) 21-11 , 19-21 , 21-13
GADE Peter Hoeeg (DEN) bt SATO Shoji (JPN) 19-21 , 22-20 , 21-15
LIN Dan (CHN) bt PARK Sunghwan (KOR) 21-8 , 21-11
CHEN Jin (CHN) bt KEHLHOFFNER Erwin (FRA) 21-10 , 21-6
HSIEH Yu-Hsing (TPE) bt WONG Choong Hann (MAS) 14-21 , 21-17 , 21-18

MIXED DOUBLES
HE Hanbin / YU Yang (CHN) bt CLARK Anthony / KELLOGG Donna (GBR) 21-15 , 21-8
PRAPAKAMOL Sudket / THOUNGTHONGKAM Saralee (THA) bt BERES Mike / LOKER Val (CAN) 21-9 , 21-9
LILIYANA / WIDIANTO Nova (INA) bt HAN Sanghun / HWANG Yumi (KOR) 23-21 , 21-19
KOSTIUCZYK Nadiezda / MATEUSIAK Robert (POL) bt AH-WAN Juliette / CUPIDON Georgie (SEY) 21-8 , 21-19

LIMPELE Flandy / MARISSA Vita (INA) bt HOPP Kristof / OVERZIER Birgit (GER)

21-12 , 21-12

EMMS Gail / ROBERTSON Nathan (GBR) bt GAO Ling / ZHENG Bo (CHN) 21-16 , 16-21 , 21-19
LEE Hyojung / LEE Yongdae (KOR) bt COOPER Craig / FLAVELL Renee (NZL) 21-12 , 21-11

JUHL Kamilla Rytter / LAYBOURN Thomas (DEN) bt LI Yujia / SAPUTRA Hendri Kurniawan (SIN)

21-12 , 21-14

MEN'S DOUBLES
MASUDA Keita / OHTSUKA Tadashi (JPN) bt CHANDRA Alvent Yulianto / HADIYANTO Luluk (INA) 19-21 , 21-14 , 21-14
BACH Howard / MALAYTHONG Bob (USA) bt DEDNAM Chris / DEDNAM Roelof (RSA) 21-10 , 21-16

CAI Yun / FU Haifeng (CHN) bt ERIKSEN Jens Dyrloev / HANSEN Martin Lundgaard (DEN)

21-12 , 21-11
PAASKE Lars / RASMUSSEN Jonas (DEN) bt CHUNG Jaesung / LEE Yongdae (KOR) 21-16 , 21-19
KOO Kien Keat / TAN Boon Heong (MAS) bt IKEDA Shintaro / SAKAMOTO Shuichi (JPN) 21-12 , 21-16
KIDO Markis / SETIAWAN Hendra (INA) bt GUO Zhendong / XIE Zhongbo (CHN) 22-20 , 10-21 , 21-17
LOGOSZ Michal / MATEUSIAK Robert (POL) bt SMITH Ross / WARFE Glenn (AUS) 21-13 , 21-16
LEE Jaejin / HWANG Jiman (KOR) bt CHOONG Tan Fook / LEE Wan Wah (MAS) 20-22 , 21-13 , 21-16

Day 4 Predictions 12/8/08

2008-08-12T07:51:00.003+08:00

After the excitement of yesterday, the upsets, the triumphs and the heartbreaks, what would day 4 bring us?

Lee Chong Wei vs. Nacvikas Kestutis
After yesterday's first round test against Ronald Susilo of Singapore, this matchup looks dull in comparison. Lee would definitely take this, unless some act of god prevents him from doing so. Lee in 2 easy sets.

Jens Eriksen/Martin Luungard Hansen vs. Cai Yun/Fu Haifeng
This is one of the most anticipated matches of the day. Jens and Martin were the ones that ended Cai and Fu's hopes of Olympic glory four years ago in Athens. What better way to claim revenge than to deny them in the first round in what could most likely be their last Olympics? Jens and Eriksen have continued to slump and slide, and I think their time is almost over. They are quite old already....I also think Cai and Fu have matured compared to 4 years ago, where they squandered a very handsome lead, and they should be able to win this match in 2 sets. 3 if Jens and Martin are able to recover some of their lost form.

Jung Jae Sung/Lee Yong Dae vs. Lar Paaske/Jonas Rasmussen
I have tipped Jung and Lee to be one of the hot favorites of this year's Olympics, but they face a formidable and experienced first round opponent. Lars and Jonas, ex world champions, ex world number 1s, have consistantly beaten the pair earlier in the year. But judging from the last few tournaments, I think Jung and Lee will snatch this exciting and sure to be explosive match in 3 tight sets.

Gao Ling/Zheng Bo vs. Gail Emms/Nathan Robertson
Very unfortunate that this pair have to meet each other so early on. Gao and Zheng are indeed very experienced, but so is ex world champion Emms and Robertson. I expect this match to go the distance, but as Gao is defending her title here, coupled with the home ground support, the Chinese should be able to pull through. However, I will not view this as an upset if Gail and Nathan won, because the English pair have always fared better against the Chinese compared to their other matches.

Koo Kien Keat/Tan Boon Heong vs. Shuichi Sakamoto/Shintaro Ikeda
The 2nd ranked Malaysian pair appear to be going through a slump recently. While the Japanese pair on paper don't look too threatening, they are after all, under the guidance of Park Joo Bong, a super coach. Koo and Tan on the other hand, have always had a weakness for Japanese players, evident from their loss in Kuala Lumpur last year. What better way to redeem lost pride by beating the very pair that ended your hopes and turned them into tears? Koo and Tan to win in 3 sets.

Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan vs. Guo Zhengdong/Xie Zhongbo
The Chinese 2nd ranked pair will be anxious to knock out one of the big favorites of this tournament. The Chinese crowd will definitely be behind them. However, to knock out the reigning world champions and world number 1s will be very difficult. Markis and Kido have been superb lately, and I expect that they will win this very hotly contested match in 2 sets. Markis' power and Hendra's netplay to shine through.

Lin Dan vs. Park Sung Hwan
This opens another chapter of the illutrious history between Lin and Park. While Lin is China's golden boy, Park was systematically precise in his demolition of a Ugandan player yesterday. While that may not qualify as an achievement, I think that that indicates that Park is firing on all cylinders, and should be able to put up a good fight. Lin to come through in 3 sets or Park in 2.

Wong Choong Hann vs. Hsieh Yu Hsin
After yesterday's stunning victory over Taufik Hidayat, Wong appears set to march into the Quarterfinals of his last Olympics, where he will most likely meet Chen Jin. Hsieh has been impressive, defeating Nguyen of Vietnam, but I don't think he is any match for the Malaysian super veteran Wong. Wong in 2 sets.

Choong Tan Fook/Lee Wan Wah vs. Hwang Ji Man/Lee Jae Jin
When the Malaysian last met the Koreans, they were beaten tamely in the 3rd set. Now they meet again. On paper Choong and Lee is the favorite to win this one, but Hwang and Lee are anything but a pushover. However, I do think Choong and Lee have learnt from their past mistakes, and should be able to win this in 2 sets, 3 if neccesary. However, if it were to go to 3 sets, Hwang and Lee would hopd the fitness upperhand.

Stay tuned for more updates!

CHOONG HANN BEATS TAUFIK IN A STUNNING FASHION

2008-08-11T20:48:00.003+08:00

Defending his title here in Beijing, Taufik Hidayat walked into the stadium expecting Malaysian super veteran Wong Choong Hann to put up a good fight. No one expected him to lose. Perhaps a close game, but Taufik definitely would win. Taufik didn't lose his game today. Choong Hann won it.

All throughout this match Choong Hann played like a man possessed, a skilled swordsmen weilding his sword, a conductor waving his baton. His sheer skill, coupled with experience and a whole lot of gut made him come out as the convincing victor of this highly anticipated match. Many have commented that Choong Hann appeared to be playing out of the ordinary, out of his league. I would be inclined to say that Choong Hann is finally playing back inside his league, that is, of the very top level.

Taufik played his usual brilliance and talent, but Choong Hann was just too accurate, just too good, just too hot for Taufik to handle. Taufik tried to burst past him, but Choong Hann held his ground steadily. There was once where Taufik managed to reverse a 4 point deficit to lead by 1, scoring 5 points in a row. However, Choong Hann, in his usual poker faced demeanor, simply brushed off Taufik, and steadily marched on towards the gates of victory, upsetting the defending champion, and continuing on a trend where no man has ever defended his title in this event.

A fitting victory for a Malaysian hero playing in his last Olympics. Watch out Chen Jin. You don't stand a chance.

LIVE SCORING AND COMMENTARY 11/8/08

2008-08-11T08:19:00.032+08:00

MOST RECENT COMMENT FIRST

Chong Wei will take on either Boonsak or Sony in the next round. Who do you think it would be?

In other matches, Marc Zwiebler just won the second game against Andrew Smith to take it to a rubber.

Join us later for more matches.

Lee wins.

20-14. Lee gets match point.

18-14. Unforced error from Lee.

18-12. Lee is blowing Susilo away with his attacks.

17-12. Lee should win now.

Quick points from Lee. 14-11.

Ronald levels it at 11 all.

Lee leads 11-8 at the interval.

9-7. Chong Wei maintains lead.

Make it 7-4 to Chong Wei.

Chong Wei has slim lead at 6-4. Ronald appears to be out of answers.

2 all.

Ronald snatches early lead. 2-0.

I'm not sure whether I heard it correctly, but the crowd appears to be behind Lee.

Takes it 21-13.

19-12. Chong Wei will win this.

17-12 to Malaysian. Should take it now.

Chong Wei is sending Susilo to different parts of the court. 16-12 to Chong Wei.

15-11. Susilo cannot afford to make weak backhand shots if he wants to keep up with Chong Wei.

They exchange points. Chong Wei has to cut down on the unforced errors. 13-10.

First point after interval goes to Chong Wei. 12-9

Chong Wei takes lead at interval. 11-9.

Chong Wei fails to capitalise. 9 all.

Nice from Ronald. 9-7 to Chong Wei.

Chong Wei snatches lead at 8-6.

6 all.

4-3. From my side I think both players are being cautious.

2 all. Composed start from both sides.

Welcome to the live commentary and live scoring today. Next up we have Ronald Susilo vs. Lee Chong Wei, and I am sure all of you are waiting anxiously for it.

Results for Day 3 (11/8/08)

2008-08-11T08:17:00.005+08:00

MEN'S SINGLES
LEE Chong Wei (MAS) bt SUSILO Ronald (SIN) 21-13 , 21-14
ZWIEBLER Marc (GER) bt SMITH Andrew (GBR) 16-21 , 21-13 , 21-17
WACHA Przemyslaw (POL) bt BOSIGER Christian (SUI) 21-12 , 11-21 , 21-19
NAVICKAS Kestutis (LTU) bt PUKHOV Stanislav (RUS) 21-12 , 21-17

BAO Chunlai (CHN) bt CORDON Kevin (GUA)

21-17 , 21-16

LANG Ville (FIN) bt RAI Raju (USA) 21-9 , 21-16
KUNCORO Sony Dwi (INA) bt PONSANA Boonsak (THA) 21-16 , 21-14
LEE Hyunil (KOR) bt JONASSEN Kenneth (DEN) 15-21 , 21-14 , 21-19
GADE Peter Hoeeg (DEN) bt LASMARI Nabil (ALG) 21-6 , 21-4

WONG Choong Hann (MAS) bt HIDAYAT Taufik (INA)

21-19 , 21-16

CHEN Jin (CHN) bt MOODY John (NZL)

21-9 , 21-11
LIN Dan (CHN) bt NG Wei (HKG) 21-16 , 21-13
HSIEH Yu-Hsing (TPE) bt NGUYEN Tien Minh (VIE) 21-16 , 15-21 , 21-15

PARK Sunghwan (KOR) bt EKIRING Edwin (UGA)

21-5 , 21-8
SATO Shoji (JPN) bt SRIDHAR Anup (IND) 21-13 , 21-17

WOMEN'S DOUBLES
MAEDA Miyuki / SUETSUNA Satoko (JPN) bt YANG Wei / ZHANG Jiewen (CHN) 8-21 , 23-21 , 21-14
DU Jing / YU Yang (CHN) bt OGURA Kumiko / SHIOTA Reiko (JPN) 21-8 , 21-5
WEI Yili / ZHANG Yawen (CHN) bt CHENG Wen-Hsing / CHIEN Yu-Chin (TPE) 21-14 , 21-18
LEE Hyojung / LEE Kyungwon (KOR) bt JIANG Yanmei / LI Yujia (SIN) 21-15 , 21-12

WOMEN'S SINGLES
PI Hongyan (FRA) bt HIROSE Eriko (JPN) 21-12 , 16-21 , 21-6

NEHWAL Saina (IND) bt WANG Chen (HKG)

21-19 , 11-21 , 21-11

YULIANTI Maria Kristin (INA) bt RASMUSSEN Tine (DEN) 18-21 , 21-19 , 21-14
ZHANG Ning (CHN) bt JUN Jaeyoun (KOR) 21-11 , 21-12
LU Lan (CHN) bt RICE Anna (CAN) 21-7 , 21-12
XU Huaiwen (GER) bt HALLAM Tracey (GBR) 21-10 , 21-7
WONG Mew Choo (MAS) bt NEDELCHEVA Petya (BUL) 21-16 , 21-8
XIE Xingfang (CHN) bt KONON Olga (BLR) 21-16 , 21-15

Day 3 Predictions 11/8/08

2008-08-11T08:03:00.002+08:00

With two hours to go before the games start, here are the predictions

Ronald Susilo vs. Lee Chong Wei
This is easily one of the most anticipated matches of the day, and it occurs right in the morning. Ronald was the one that beat Lin Dan in the first round last year, and expectations are high on him. However, the great Lee Chong Wei is anything but easy, and many view him as the favorites for this tournament. Unless Lee has a breakdown like Lin or Ronald suddenly becomes a superman, I don't see how he can repeat his 2004 Athens feat.

Eriko Hirose vs. Pi Hongyan
This will be a very interesting matchup. Both Pi and Eriko were ruthless in their matches yesterday, but I was especially impressed with Pi's performance. I think she should win today's match.

Lee Hyun Il vs. Kenneth Jonassen
Another very highly anticipated match of the day. Hyun Il has been on and off lately, while Kenneth is here fresh from winning the European Championships. I think Kenneth holds the slight upper hand in this battle, but this is all it is, a slight upper hand. I wouldn't even call it an upset if Lee were to beat Kenneth.

Jun Jae Youn vs. Zhang Ning
Jun has been extremely impressive of late, while Zhang has been somewhat inconsistant. However, Zhang Ning is, after defending her title here. From yesterday's performance, I am not sure about Zhang's condition. She seemed sluggish and slow to start (slow even by Zhang's standards). Jun on ther other hand has been extremely impressive, although she has been absent from many tournaments. Jun to win in 3.

Maria Kristin Yulianti vs. Tine Rasmussen
Maria was impressive on Saturday, but what she is up against today is one of the main medal contenders for the title. I expect Tine to breeze through, but expect Maria to put on a fight. Tine to win in 2 sets, 3 if Maria can find a way to stem the attacking play of Tine.

Boonsak Ponsana vs. Sony Dwi Kuncoro
Another yummy matchup. Both are highly revered players, and this is a repeat of the bronze medal match in Athens 4 years ago. That time Sony won, but this time, I expect the match to be very much closer. It will definitely go to three sets, and I think Sony will prevail slightly in the end.

Wong Mew Choo vs. Petya Nedelcheva
After yesterday's respective destruction of their opponents, both players appear to be in top condition. If both players are playing at their best, I expect Wong to pull through easily.

Taufik Hidayat vs. Wong Choong Hann
It was Taufik that ended Wong's hopes in Sydney 8 years ago. Can Wong take revenge? It will be hard, with the defending champion's skill. However, I can't say that I have been impressed with Taufik of late. If the veteran Wong wants to strike, now will be the perfect time. As in who will win, I think Taufik will, in a significantly tighter match compared to 8 years ago.

Stay tuned for more news from The Badminton Blog!

Results for Day 2 (10/8/08)

2008-08-10T08:08:00.013+08:00

Finished Games:

WOMEN'S DOUBLES
Suetsuna/Maeda (JPN) beats Luiz/Tanaka (AUS) 21-4 , 21-8
Lee/Lee (KOR) beats Chin /Wong 21-14 21-19
Jiang/Li (SIN) beats Lee/Mangkalakiri (USA) 21-12 21-12

MEN'S SINGLES
Park Sung Hwan (KOR) beats Andrew Dabeka (CAN) 21-11 , 21-11

WOMEN'S SINGLES
Eriko Hirose (JPN) beats Le Nguyen (VIE) 21-7 21-12
Jun Jae Youn (KOR) beats Chloe Magee (IRL) 21-12 21-14
Pi Hongyan (FRA) beats Claudia Rivero (PER) 21-6 21-9
Saina Nehwal (IND) beats Larisa Griga (UKR) 21-18 21-10
Tine Rasmussen (DEN) beats Akvile Stapustytyte (LTU) 21-6 , 21-8
Maria Kristin Yulianti (INA) beats Yoana Martinez (ESP) 21-9 , 21-14
Wang Chen (HKG) beats Eva Sladekova (SVK) 21-7 , 21-8
Lu Lan (CHN) beats Karen Foo Kune (MRI) 21-3 , 7-1 Retired
Wong Mew Choo (MAS) beats Harrington Kerry Lee (RSA) 21-4 , 21-4
Olga Konon (BEL) beats Madja Tvrdy (SLO) 21-17 , 21-14
Anna Rice (CAN) beats Jeanne Cicognini (SUI) 21-10 , 21-13
Tracey Hallam (ENG) beats Kritina Ludikova (CZE) 21-18 , 21-13
Anup Sridhar (IND) beats Marco Vascocelos (POR) 21-16 , 21-14

Last updated 8:20pm Beijing time

LIVE SCORING AND COMMENTARY 10/8/08

2008-08-10T08:04:00.070+08:00

COMMENTARY TEMPORARILY SUSPENDED

Livescoring here

Day 2 Predictions 10/8/08

2008-08-09T17:26:00.002+08:00

Heres my predictions for day 2! The full draw is not out yet though, so this is as far as I can go!

Salakjit Ponsana vs. Zhang Ning
I distinctively remember them meeting each other before in the past year. Zhang Ning, defending her title here, is obviously the hot favorite in this match up. Although she hasn't been in the best of forms for the past year, she is still the Zhang Ning, and Ponsana is still regarded as a dark horse at best. Zhang to prevail in 2 sets, unless Ponsana is able to exploit her early tournament stiffness, I don't see what more Ponsana can do.

Zhang Jiewen/Yang Wei vs. Vita Marrissa/Flandy Limpele
This might well be the match of the day. The last time they met was the Uber Cup Grand Final, where they played an exhillirating match in front of an electrical Senayan crowd, in what many call the match of the tournament in the heartland of badminton. The Chinese managed to just nick a win the last time, if my memory doesn't fool me, by the very thinnest of margins. This time the tables are turned: instead of Senayan, we are now in China. As to who would win, it is extremely hard to predict, but I have to go with China, as I have an immense respect for Zhang and Yang, the reigning World Champions and World Number 1s. But it will be tight, extremely tight, and I wouldn't actually be surprised if the Indonesians actually manage to upset them.

Lee Hyo Jung/Lee Kyung Won vs. Chin Eei Hui/Wong Pei Tty
This is another one of the Women's Doubles match to watch. The Koreans have been extremely impressive of late, beating the aforementioned Zhang and Yang just recently in the Uber Cup semifinals. Chin and Wong on the other hand, are anything but a pushover. They recently managed to stretch the, again, aforementioned Zhang and Yang to three sets in the Thailand Open finals. My heart tells me Chin and Wong, but my brain says the two Lees. Unless Chin and Wong are able to stand up and play at a higher level, I don't see how they can win. Lee and Lee in 3 sets.

Wong Mew Choo vs. Karen Foo Kune
This little known African shuttler, putting it crudely, stands no chance against the Malaysian player. Wong should usethis as a good warmup session, and prepare for bigger and better opponents.

Gail Ems/Donna Kellog vs. Zhang Yawen/Wei Yili
Oh my gosh! What on earth has happened with the WD draw? So many yummy yummy, yummy first round draws! The English pairs have always managed to trouble the Chinese girls, and Zhang and Wei have drawn an extremely lousy first round opponent. Zhang and Wei should survive this encounter, but expect a tough fight from the English opponents.

He Hanbin/Yu Yang vs. Ha Jung Eun/Kim Ming Jun
What is it with the draw! Another toughie for a Chinese! However, in relation to ther other opponents their teammates are facing, Ha and Kim are relatively easier. They should be able to pull through, unless Ha and Kim have improved significantly since I've last seen them.

Stay tuned for more news from The Badminton Blog!

Results for Day 1 (9/8/08)

2008-08-09T10:05:00.014+08:00

Finished Games:

WOMEN'S SINGLE
Maris Kristin Yulianti (INA) beats Julianne Schenk (GER) 18-12 21-13 22-20
Martinez Yoana (ESP) beats Carroll Erin (AUS) 21-9 21-16
Eriko Hirose (JPN) beats Ragna Ingolfdottir (ICL) 21-16 19-7 Retired
Larisa Griga (UKR) beats Agnese Allegrini 21-15 21-11
Anna Rice (CAN) beats Eva Lee (USA) 21-15 19-21 21-19
Jeanne Cicognini (SUI) beats Ana Moura (POR) 21-9 21-13
Olga Konon (BLR) beats Xing Aiying (SIN) 21-19 21-12
Hania Hosdy (EGY) beats Deyanira Angulo (MEX) 21-18 , 7-21 , 21-14
Petya Nedechelva (BUL) beats Sara Perrson (SWE) 21-10 , 21-10
Le Nnn (VIE) beats Thilini Jayasinghe (SRI) 21-13 , 21-12
Kristina Ludikova (CZE) beats Daniel Grace (NGE) 21-13 , 21-8
Noele Magee (IRL) beats Kati Tolmoff (EST) 18-21 , 21-18 , 21-19
Jun Jae Youn (KOR) beats Kamila Augustyn (POL) 21-12 , 21-19
Saina Nehwal (IND) beats Ella Karachkova (RUS) 21-9 , 21-8
Tracey Hallam (ENG) beats Yip Pui Yin (HKG) 21-15 , 21-17

MEN'S SINGLE
Wacha Prezemyslaw (POL) beats Raul Must (EST) 21-14 21-15
Marc Zwiebler (GER) beats Scott Evans (IRE) 21-18 , 18-21 , 21-19
Hsieh Yu Hsing (TPE) beats Kaveh Mehrabi (IRI) 21-16 , 21-12
Ville Lang (FIN) beats Vladislav Druzchenko (UKR) 21-12 , 21-19
Navikas Kestutis (LTU) beats Pablo Abian (ESP) 23-21 , 12-21 , 21-9
Erwin Kehlhoffner (FRA) beats Stuart Gomez (AUS) 19-21 , 22-20 , 21-15
Andrew Smith (ENG) beats Peter Koukal (CZE) 10-21 , 21-12 , 21-15

Last updated 9.39pm Beijing Time.

LIVE SCORING AND COMMENTARY 9/8/08

2008-08-09T09:13:00.086+08:00

MOST RECENT COMMENT FIRST

COMMENTARY SUSPENDED FOR TODAY

Olympic Games Day 1 Pre Games Analysis

2008-08-08T07:08:00.002+08:00

The Olympic Games are finally here! Day 1 doesn't feature much fun and games though...

Watch out for Maria Kristian Yulianti who takes on German veteran Schenk. Hong Kong's Yip Pui Yin, who qualified after Zhou Mi was ruled out of the games, takes on English Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist Tracey Hallam. Korean favorite Jun Jae Youn takes on lesser known Kammila Augustyn.

The Men's round of 64 doesn't field all the players, as most players get walkovers in this round. Interesting matches include Park Sung Hwan vs. Andrew Dabeka and giant killer Anup Sridhar vs. Marcos Vasconcelos.

Sunday's matches will prove to be more interesting! Stay tuned for more Olympic Games news!