16-Jan-2012
THE NEWS
KUALA LUMPUR: World number one Lee Chong Wei equalled a badminton legend’s record of eight Malaysia Open titles on Sunday, trouncing his opponent in the final and declaring he had his sights set on Olympic gold.
The Malaysian emulated compatriot Wong Peng Soon’s record of winning eight men’s singles titles with a comprehensive 21-6, 21-13 victory over Japan’s Kenichi Tago.
“It feels great to have equalled a legend’s record and now I have set my sights on winning the country’s first Olympic gold medal,” said Lee, who was a runner-up at the Beijing Olympics four years ago.
Lee’s previous Malaysia Open titles came in 2004, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010 and last year while Wong’s eight wins were in 1940, 1941, 1947, 1949, 1950, 1951, 1952 and 1953.
“I will now cut down my commitments and focus on the Olympics. For sure I will play in the Thomas Cup and the All England as they are the very important tournaments to me and the country,” he added.
“The win is a good Chinese New Year present for me and I will now enjoy a short break with my family before resuming training.” Asked if he will now seek to break Wong’s record, Lee said “it would be nice to get nine titles but for now, the focus is on the Olympics.” |
