Throughout badminton’s illustrious history, certain matches stand out for their incredible displays of skill, determination, and drama. These contests not only enthralled fans, but many became etched in the annals of badminton lore for their historical significance and unforgettable performances. In this article, we recount 5 of the most legendary badminton matches ever transpired globally.
Lin Dan vs Lee Chong Wei, London 2012 Olympic Final
Arguably, the greatest badminton rivalry culminated in a gold medal showdown for the ages at the 2012 Olympics. Lee Chong Wei of Malaysia battled China’s Lin Dan in a captivating see-saw affair featuring unbelievable athleticism. Both legends showcased mesmerizing skills before Lin ultimately prevailed 19-21, 21-10, 21-19 to claim the gold. But Lee’s spirited challenge earned respect worldwide.
Lin Dan (CHN) v Lee Chong Wei (MAS) – Men’s Badminton Singles Final | London 2012 Olympics
P.V. Sindhu vs. Nozomi Okuhara, World Championships Final 2017
In one of the greatest women’s contests ever, India’s Sindhu dueled Japan’s Okuhara in a breathtaking World Championship final. The match lasted an exhausting 1 hour and 49 minutes, making it the longest in women’s badminton history. After an epic ebb-and-flow battle, Sindhu finally captured gold 21-19, 20-22, 22-20. The display of endurance and skill was legendary.
TOTAL BWF World Championships 2017 | Badminton F M2-WS | Pusarla V. Sindhu vs. Nozomi Okuhara
Misbun Sidek vs. Morten Frost, World Championship Final 1985
Unheralded Misbun Sidek authored a monumental upset against Morten Frost to earn Malaysia’s first world title in 1985. As heavy underdogs, the Sidek brothers shocked Frost and China to win the Thomas Cup. Then Misbun dethroned three-time world champion Frost in straight sets in the individual final. It marked Malaysia’s badminton breakthrough.
1985 Malaysian Masters Badminton Morten Frost vs Misbun Sidek
Goh V Shem/Tan Wee Kiong vs Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon, Japan Open 2019
This recent men’s doubles thriller featured nonstop edge-of-your-seat action between the Malaysian and Indonesian pairs. After multiple momentum swings, Tan and Goh ultimately prevailed 17-21, 23-21, 21-11. Both teams’ electric atmosphere and amazing skills exemplified world-class badminton at its highest level.
Nice Angle Badminton – Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo/Marcus Fernaldi Gideon vs Goh V Shem/ Tan Wee Kiong
Prakash Padukone vs Liem Swie King, All England Final 1980
Prakash Padukone became the first Indian to win the All-England after a nail-biting final versus Indonesia’s Liem Swie King. Padukone saved multiple match points in the second game before pulling off the historic 16-21, 22-20, 21-18 victory. His courageous triumph put Indian badminton on the map and started an era of dominance.
Prakash Padukone v Liem Swie King | Men’s Singles Final 1980 | All England Classic
From Olympic glory to against-the-odds upsets, these contests stand the test of time for their displays of badminton brilliance. The legendary badminton matches are integral chapters in the sport’s enduring history.
