Occupying the world number one ranking for 76 consecutive weeks between December 2014 and June 2016, Chen Long established himself as a central figure in men’s singles badminton. The Chinese athlete, born in 1989 in the Shashi District, rose through the national youth system to become a decorated Olympic competitor and consistent presence on the international tournament circuit.
Early Development and Junior Success
Chen began his formal training at the Sports School in Jingzhou in 1996. After joining the Xiamen team in 2000, he advanced to the national youth squad by 2005 and the national second team in 2006. His international transition occurred in 2007, when he secured boys’ singles titles at both the Asian and World Junior Championships. During that same year, he contributed to China’s victory in the Suhandinata Cup.
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Selected for the national first team in 2008, Chen began his professional career in earnest. He earned his first title at the 2009 Philippines Open, defeating Hu Yun. The following year, he proved his utility in team formats, contributing to China's gold medal performance at the 2010 Thomas Cup and the Asian Games in Guangzhou. By the end of 2010, his consistent tournament performance elevated his world ranking to a career-high fourth position.
Olympic and World Championship Trajectory
Chen’s Olympic career spanned three games, resulting in a complete set of medals. He earned a bronze medal in 2012 after defeating Lee Hyun-il, a gold medal in 2016, and a silver medal in 2020. His dominance extended to the World Championships, where he claimed titles in 2014 and 2015. Throughout his career, he also secured numerous continental accolades, including Asian and East Asian Games championships.
Technical Profile
Recognized by observers for his defensive playing style, Chen became noted for his endurance and capacity to control the tempo of long rallies. This specific tactical approach earned him the nickname The Great Wall of China. He demonstrated high proficiency in major events like the Japan Open, China Masters, and Denmark Open, consistently challenging top-ranked players like Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan.
Fast facts
- Born: 1989, Shashi District
- Olympic Gold Medal: 2016
- Olympic Silver Medal: 2020
- Olympic Bronze Medal: 2012
- World Champion: 2014, 2015
- First professional title: 2009 Philippines Open
- World number one streak: 76 weeks
- Nationality: People's Republic of China
Questions readers ask
What major individual titles did Chen Long win?
He won the Olympic gold medal in 2016 and the World Championship title in both 2014 and 2015.
How long was Chen Long ranked as the world number one?
He held the top men's singles ranking for 76 consecutive weeks from December 2014 to June 2016.
Achievements
- Badminton Hall of Fame
- world champion
- Olympic silver medal
- Olympic bronze medal
- Asian champion
- Asian Games champion
- East Asian Games champion
- Olympic gold medal
- Competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics
