China's Chen Jin went one better than last year to lift the men's singles World Badminton title on Sunday, subduing Indonesia's Taufik Hidayat 21-13 21-15 in the final.
Chen had finished runner-up in 2009 when he lost to compatriot Lin Dan but Lin was beaten this time round in Friday’s quarter-finals, leaving centre stage for Chen. The Chinese took his chance with both hands, often outplaying Hidayat, world champion in 2005 and Olympic gold medallist in 2004.
Defending superbly when necessary, Chen called the shots. Hidayat bravely saved three match points from 20-12 but Chen was not to be denied.
“Mentally I was very strong today. I prepared very well and I didn’t let Taufik play to his strengths, particularly around the net,” said Chen.
Chen’s victory heralded a possible Chinese clean sweep of the five titles up for grabs on Sunday. China have not achieved the feat since 1987.