SHAH ALAM: Datuk Lee Chong Wei outplayed world No.1 and defending champion Chen Long in the final to land his 11th Celcom Axiata Malaysia Open crown at the Malawati Stadium here today.
Chen Long was expected to give the Malaysian a tough time but Chong Wei, with the massive support from over 10,000 fans, rose to the occasion and delivered a stunning performance to down the Chinese ace in straight games.
It took Chong Wei just 21 minutes to take the first set 21-13. Chen Long appeared to be rattled in the second where he made a string of mistakes. This helped Chong Wei's confidence and he was soon leading 14-4, much to the delight of the crowd who could already feel victory in the air.
Although leading comfortably, the 33-year-old Malaysian maintained his focus and coolly claimed the second 21-18 for his 11th Malaysia Open crown.
“I did not expect to beat Chen Long easily today,” said Chong Wei after the 42 minute battle. “I have to thank the fans who had come to the stadium from afar to support me. I forgot about being tired altogether when the fans stood firmly behind me. I really appreciate that.”
For the record, the win over Chen Long today was Chong Wei’s 12th in 24 meetings, where with the win this evening, he also took home USD 41 250.
