Chong Wei in the final and will face Chen Long

Malaysia’s Datuk Lee Chong Wei is just one match away from achieving his dream of being crowned the world champion for the very first time. 

Chong Wei spared no quarters in today’s semifinals as he smashed aside Danish ace Jan Jorgensen who had the previous day stunned former world champ Lin Dan. 

Chong Wei won 21-6, 21-19 in 42 minutes to set-up a final against topseed Chen Long, who had earlier today whipped Kento Momota of Japan 21-9, 21-15 in the other men’s singles semifinal tie. It will be a repeat of last year’s final which Chen Long won.

The Malaysian former world No.1 grabbed the first point and before long was leading 7-3. A series of perfectly executed jumping smashes caught Jorgensen flat and Chong Wei was up 11-3.

Jorgensen’s despair was complete when Chong Wei’s solid shot hit the tape and rolled over to put him at game point.

In the second game, Jorgensen turned up the heat and started to attack the Malaysian. He stuck with Chong Wei from 3-3, went on to 15-15. 

Chong Wei wanted to wrap up the game and forced his way through pulled away to lead 19-16. At 20-17, it was over, but not before Jorgensen briefly gave Chong Wei a scare when he snatched two points. Chong Wei settled the the match 21-19 after 42 minutes.

Speaking after the match, Chong Wei commented: “There is a big difference between last year and this year. I was out for eight months because of doping and now I’m in the final again.

“I hope i can achieve my dream tomorrow, I have to be focused, this is my chance, maybe my last chance. Last year, I put pressure own myself, but this year i’m unseeded and have nothing to lose.”

“To say there is no pressure would be a lie but I will play my best and enjoy the game tomorrow.”