Triumph of Super Dan

After the erratic performance shown by Lin Dan in yesterday's semifinals against the obvious underdog Kenneth Jonassen, Lin once against showed why he is regarded as the best player in the world after the systematic annihilation of compatriot Bao Chunlai in a straightforward 2 set match, defying many who predicted that Bao would finally stop breaking his female fan's heart and shed his Mr Runner Up title by winning his first title of the year.

Bao, after shutting down three badminton superstars: Taufik, Chen Jin and Lee Chong Wei, surprisingly meekly succumbed to the pressure of the world number 1 in a loopsided scoreline of 21-15 21-12. Lin never allowed Bao to get into the match with the latter never ever leading in both games. With 18 smash winners to a miserable 5, Lin Dan once against has showcased the badminton power game at its highest level, and systematically treated the Danish audience to his supremacy.

By earning his 6th title of the year, and 24th overall international title, Lin has reminded many fans of his domineering presence in the international badminton scene. With the Super Series Finals, a 500,000 U.S. Dollars tournament coming up, and with the 200,000 U.S. Dollar French Open on next week, such untroubled dominance would certainly ring in many fan's ears, and might even instill fear in the minds of other players. His performance today reinforces: Can Lin Dan be beaten?

It remains to see whether players such as Lee and Taufik are still able to pose a credible challenge to the Chinese machine. Naturally it begs the question: Who is in a position to deny China's Olympic titles, Thomas Cup and Uber Cup next year?