World no.1 Lee Chong Wei becomes first player to use decision review system in badminton

Lee Chong Wei in action at the BWF Superseries Finals 2013

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) is experimenting with the decision review system at the season ending BWF Superseries Final 2013 and Malaysia’s men’s world no.1 Lee Chong Wei officially became the first player to use it during his first match yesterday at the event.

The Malaysian ‘is seeking his fourth BWF World Superseries Finals men’s singles crown and got off to the perfect start beating China’s Wang Zhengming 21-10, 21-18.

Chong Wei used the video review while trailing 2-4 in the second game after his return of Wang’s serve was called long. The review showed that Chong Wei was indeed right to question the decision as it showed the shuttle landing on the line.

After the match, he went on to welcome the use of video reviews for disputed calls.

“It is about time video technology is brought into the game. The shuttle travels so fast, and the line judges only have a split second to make a decision,” said Chong Wei.

“All the players are in favour of the system as it helps eradicate accusations of bias.”

The technology, which uses ultra-slow motion cameras, is being used on a trial basis at this week’s season finale in an attempt to eradicate errors in judgment from the officials which could potentially affect a match in a big way.

Along similar lines as in tennis, cricket, football and rugby, each player will have two challenges per match during the tournament in Chong Wei’s home city of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

None of the players in the earlier matches on Wednesday used it, paving the way for the world number one to be the first in line.

“I’m honoured, as the world number one, to be the first player to use the review system,” a delighted Chong Wei said.