LEE Chong Wei's popularity in China is immense as the World No 1 is often seen signing autographs or having his picture taken by the local media and volunteers. The attention that Chong Wei receives, proves he is one of the most popular athletes in Guangzhou.
However, national coach Misbun Sidek hopes this will not affect Chong Wei's focus and chances of delivering medals.
"Chong Wei is an icon here. Everyone wants to get a piece of him. Chong Wei, however, is handling it all quite well," said Misbun at the Tianhe Gymnasium in Guangzhou yesterday.
"It can either motivate him or put him under pressure. It depends how he absorbs the attention.
"For now, he is feeling comfortable with all the attention. I'm confident it won't affect him but anything can happen."
Chong Wei, who has been World No 1 since late 2008, is hoping to win his first title in China. The Penang-born shuttler, however, faces strong resistance from China's players, led by Olympic champion Lin Dan and Chen Jin, in the men's singles.
The 28-year-old, who has won eight titles this year, is the top seed.
Yesterday, the national squad tried out the Tianhe Gymnasium, which is the Asian Games badminton venue, for the first time and Misbun was happy with the conditions.
"We had our first training session at this nice venue. Our players also had a good feel of the place. It is important as the environment will be different on competition day. It is a good start ... we are happy with the venue," said Misbun.
"Personally, I felt warm and cold during training. A little draft with the wind shifting here and there but overall it is okay."
The national men's and women's squads start their campaign in the team event tomorrow.
Read more: NST/
However, national coach Misbun Sidek hopes this will not affect Chong Wei's focus and chances of delivering medals.
"Chong Wei is an icon here. Everyone wants to get a piece of him. Chong Wei, however, is handling it all quite well," said Misbun at the Tianhe Gymnasium in Guangzhou yesterday.
"It can either motivate him or put him under pressure. It depends how he absorbs the attention.
"For now, he is feeling comfortable with all the attention. I'm confident it won't affect him but anything can happen."
Chong Wei, who has been World No 1 since late 2008, is hoping to win his first title in China. The Penang-born shuttler, however, faces strong resistance from China's players, led by Olympic champion Lin Dan and Chen Jin, in the men's singles.
The 28-year-old, who has won eight titles this year, is the top seed.
Yesterday, the national squad tried out the Tianhe Gymnasium, which is the Asian Games badminton venue, for the first time and Misbun was happy with the conditions.
"We had our first training session at this nice venue. Our players also had a good feel of the place. It is important as the environment will be different on competition day. It is a good start ... we are happy with the venue," said Misbun.
"Personally, I felt warm and cold during training. A little draft with the wind shifting here and there but overall it is okay."
The national men's and women's squads start their campaign in the team event tomorrow.
Read more: NST/
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