2025-06-04
XINCHANG, China – November 22, 2024 – The 2024 Xinchang Lin Dan Cup Badminton Championships commenced today, drawing nearly 300 elite players from over 20 countries and regions, including China, Chinese Taipei, South Korea, Malaysia, and the United States. Competitors gathered in this renowned city along the Tang Poetry Road for three days of intense men's singles and mixed team events.
The spotlight fell squarely on Court 1 of the newly built Xinchang Small Ball Sports Center during a men's singles Round of 64 match. Two-time Lin Dan Cup champion (Shenzhen & Macau 2024) and world No. 43 Chang Chun Wei faced off against FLEXPRO Korea Team's unheralded newcomer, Choi Jihun (BWF ranking outside 1000).
The match began with Choi Jihun seizing the initiative. Displaying aggressive offense and remarkably tight defense, the FLEXPRO Korea player surged to a commanding 23-14 lead, seemingly poised for a swift victory. However, the defending champion and world No. 43 suddenly ignited, showcasing his formidable power to mount a stunning comeback. He leveled the score at 27-27 and then pulled ahead to 29-27, needing just two points for the match.
Undeterred by the immense pressure, the young FLEXPRO Korea prospect kept his composure. In a breathtaking display of nerve, Choi Jihun reeled off four consecutive points to snatch a dramatic 31-29 victory. This remarkable upset marks the biggest shock of the tournament so far.
