Badminton is a sport that has been around for centuries, and has become increasingly popular in the modern era. While it is often played recreationally, it has also become an extremely competitive professional sport. While there is no definitive answer to who is the greatest badminton player of all time, there are a few players who stand out as the best of the best.
Historical Greats
When discussing who is the greatest badminton player of all time, it is important to recognize some of the greats from the past. One of the earliest greats was Richard Landon, who won the first ever All England Badminton Championship in 1899. He was the first of many greats from the United Kingdom, including Major C.V. Stanforth, who won the All England seven times between 1908 and 1920, and the legendary Dan Travers, who won the title a record eleven times between 1925 and 1939.
Rudy Hartono
One of the most renowned badminton players of all time is Indonesian Rudy Hartono, who dominated the sport in the 1960s and 70s. He was the first ever badminton player to win the All England men’s singles title eight times, and he won the prestigious Indonesian Open seven times in a row. Hartono was also a member of the Indonesian Thomas Cup team, which won the championship five times during his reign.
Lin Dan
Another player who is often regarded as the greatest of all time is Chinese badminton legend Lin Dan. Known as “Super Dan”, he has won an incredible five All England titles, as well as two Olympic gold medals and four World Championships titles. He is also the only player to have won all nine major titles in the badminton world, making him one of the most successful players in the history of the sport.
Lee Chong Wei
Finally, the greatest badminton player of all time is arguably Malaysian Lee Chong Wei. He has won the All England title three times, as well as three Olympic silver medals and three World Championship titles. He also holds the record for the most consecutive titles won in the Malaysia Open, having won the tournament nine times in a row between 2009 and 2018.
Conclusion
There is no definitive answer to who is the greatest badminton player of all time, as there are many greats who have contributed to the sport in their own ways. However, the players who stand out as the best of the best include Richard Landon, Major C.V. Stanforth, Dan Travers, Rudy Hartono, Lin Dan, and Lee Chong Wei. These players are all considered to be the greatest of all time, and they have each left an indelible mark on the sport of badminton.