Chinese · Longyan, Fujian, China · Born 14 October 1983Chinese badminton legend, two-time Olympic champion and five-time World Champion, the only player to complete the 'Super Grand Slam' of all major titles.
Born in Longyan, Fujian Province, China on October 14, 1983, Lin Dan emerged from humble beginnings to become badminton's most dominant force. He began playing at age five and joined the provincial junior team at nine before entering the national youth program. His exceptional talent was recognized early, leading to his selection for China's senior national team in 2001 at just 18 years old. Lin Dan's career peaked during the 2000s and early 2010s, when he established himself as the sport's premier player. He captured five World Championships between 2006 and 2013, demonstrating remarkable consistency at the highest level. His Olympic performances were equally impressive, winning gold medals at Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 to become the first player to successfully defend the men's singles title. He also claimed Asian Games gold medals in 2006 and 2010, while contributing to China's Thomas Cup victories in 2004 and 2006. The defining achievement of Lin Dan's career was completing badminton's Super Grand Slam, becoming the first and only player to win all nine major BWF titles. This unprecedented feat included Olympic gold, World Championships, World Cup, Thomas Cup, Sudirman Cup, Asian Games gold, Asian Championships, All England Open, and BWF Super Series Finals victories. He accumulated 66 BWF Super Series titles throughout his career and held the world number one ranking for 199 weeks across multiple periods. Lin Dan's legacy extends beyond statistics to his transformative impact on badminton's global profile. His legendary rivalry with Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei produced some of the sport's greatest matches and elevated badminton's popularity worldwide. Known for his aggressive playing style, devastating smash, exceptional court coverage, and emotional celebrations, he brought unprecedented drama and athleticism to the game. His retirement from international competition in 2020 marked the end of an era, with Lin Dan universally acknowledged as the greatest male badminton player in history.
Only player to achieve Super Grand Slam in badminton
He is the only player in history to have won all nine major BWF titles — the most complete achievement possible in professional badminton.
Did You Know?How They Played
Aggressive attacking style with exceptional court coverage and powerful smashes
Lasting Impact
Greatest men's singles badminton player of all time, first to win all 9 BWF major titles
Career Honours
- Olympic Gold 2008 2012
- World Champion 5x
- All 9 BWF major titles (unique)
Chinese Athletes