The 2016 edition of the Indonesia Superseries gets underway in the capital city of Jakarta from Monday. It is perhaps one of the two events in the next fortnight or so that participants will look to gain valuble preparations ahead of Rio Olympics, the second event being the Australian open, that begins in early June.
Here’s a look at 5 Men’s Singles contenders for the competition:
1.Chen Long
He might not have had the greatest year so far, having made numerous semifinal appearances, but in the final stretch for his Olympic preparations, Chen Long will hope to clinch the Indonesian Super Series crown to get back to winning ways.
The 28-year-old, who was part of the Thomas Cup team that reached the semifinals of the competition, has been consistent this year but what will disappoint him will be his failure to win trophies and he will look to set that record straight when he takes to the courts of Jakrata from Monday.
2.Lee Ching Wei
The ageless Malaysian is a strong contender for a title in any event and the Indonesian Super series will be no different. the 33-year-old, who in March won his 10th Malaysian Superseries crown, will look to gain further confidence ahead of the Olympics.
The Malaysians reached the semifinals of the Thomas and Uber Cup last week and the talisman had a key role to play in their last 4 finish in the competition. He will hope to put in a good performance next week and gain some good momentum for the forthcoming tournaments.
3.Lin Dan
He maybe 33-years-old, but Lin Dan still it seems has the hunger burning with him. The former Chinese World No.1, who lifted yet anoter All England title earlier this year, will hope to win his maiden crown in Jakarat this year.
This competition, along with the Australian Open, could prove to be crucial tests for him as he looks forward to what in all probability will be his final Olympics in Rio Dejanerio in August.
4.Viktor Axelson
A vital component to Denmark’s Thomas Cup winning squad last week, Viktor Axelson will pose a big threat to everybody at the Indonesia Open next wekk. The ever improving Dane, who has had a very impressive last 12-18 months, will look to continue his fine run in Jakarta and clinch hi maiden title thereby, further strengthhening his position as the top ranked Danish player in the world.
5.Jan O Jorgenson
Ranked just below his fellow Dane- Axelson- Jan O Jorgenson is yet another player hailing from the European nation who is creating a good impression for himself on the international circuit.
These are certainly good times for Danis badminton and Jorgenson, along with Axelson will look those positive vibes forward and hopefully clinch the title in Jakarta.