Chen Long Retires: Coaching Li Shifeng, A New Chapter Begins

Jayce September 6, 2024 3 0

On May 12th, amidst China’s active preparation for the upcoming Sudirman Cup, badminton fans heard the news of Olympic champion Chen Long’s retirement. China’s national badminton team singles coach, Xia Xuanze, confirmed Chen Long’s retirement, marking a new phase in the career of this men’s singles star of the Chinese team.

Chen Long, who was born in 1989 and is now 34 years old, has had a remarkable career. In the 2014 Badminton World Championships, he won his first world championship title and ascended to world number one the same year. He successfully defended his world championship title in 2015.

His most acclaimed achievement came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he defeated Lee Chong Wei 2-0 to win the men’s singles gold medal, contributing to China’s third consecutive Olympic gold in men’s singles.

At the Tokyo Olympics, despite being a seasoned player, Chen Long showed impressive performance by reaching the men’s singles final, ultimately losing 0-2 to Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen and securing the silver medal.

In addition to his individual achievements, Chen Long also made significant contributions to China’s team events, helping the Chinese team win multiple Sudirman Cups and Thomas Cups.

With advancing age, Chen Long gradually faded from the competitive scene after the Tokyo Olympics cycle ended. In October 2022, due to lack of participation in tournaments, Chen Long’s world ranking was removed from the list by the Badminton World Federation, effectively confirming his departure from professional badminton, though he had not formally announced it to the public until now.

Throughout his career, Chen Long accumulated a total of 11 world championships in singles and team events.

Currently, Chen Long is actively involved in coaching, primarily mentoring Li Shifeng, a promising newcomer in China’s men’s singles division. This role ensures the continuity of China’s men’s singles badminton legacy through mentorship and guidance provided by Chen Long and other retired Olympic champions like Li Xuerui and Cai Yun during China’s national team training sessions earlier this year.