Yes, it's one less motivation for Lin Dan to carry on at a personal level, but, on the other hand, it could serve as an impetus to continue doing what his greatest rival promised but failed to accomplish with him - to meet at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics for the fourth time together on the world's highest stage in badminton.
For sure, Lin Dan won't call it quits yet, he will soldier on for one of the two OG spots to the very end. One can only hope, he has no lack of willpower and determination though, realistically, it would probably be a case of the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak.
Still it is an admirable quest, one that defies the ravages of age, a historic accomplishment if he not only qualifies but goes on to medal with any colors at the Olympics at the advanced age of 36, unprecedented in badminton history.
As we know, breaking records is Lin Dan's specialty, too many to list offhand. While the odds are getting heavier as he ages far beyond the normal retirement age for most players, he is , nevertheless, a noted prodigious talent with immense experience and proven track record second to none, there is I wouldn't say a remote possibility but more than that for he might just barely overcome his 'physical limitation or restriction' and, perhaps,coupled with a little luck go where no man has gone before, who knows.
Call it wishful thinking if you like, naturally. Personally, I wish it's a case of mind over matter and history is made ?!
At the moment, he can at most hope to chase Chen Long and overtake him, admittedly, I doubt he can touch Shi Yuqi who is currently just too good for any of his fellow teammates to dislodge from the CHN MS1 position.
it may be true, but at the same time, it's very likely not possible. Also I don't see LD being that good anymore, at least not if the Top10 can deliver up to their ranking/expectation. Then again, that is improbable if Ginting and Christie can both qualify....
