Chen-Lee quarterfinal clash expected in badminton worlds

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug. 9 (Xinhua) -- Defending Champion Chen Long from China may meet with Malaysia's Lee Chong Wei in the quarterfinals of the upcoming Badminton World Championship, according to the draw made here on Wednesday.

The men's singles champions in the 2015 worlds and the 2016 Olympics, Chen Long had to rely on a wild card given by the Badminton World Federation to participate in the tournament because of his dismal performance recently.

On the other hand, Lee would have to fight off another Chinese shuttler Tian Houwei to set the stage with Chen.

Lee's nemesis Lin Dan was drawn into the first half together with first seed and world No.1 Son Wan Ho of South Korea.

When asked about whether badminton fans would have another final between Lin and Lee, Badminton Association Malaysia's technical director Morten Frost confirmed the possibility but reminded that Son should be taken more seriously.

He also expects great competitions in all five categories with no clear favorites.

The world championship will be held in Glasgow, Scotland from Aug. 21 to 27.