Lin Dan

In a dramatic twist, Malaysian Lee Chong Wei was forced to forfeit his bid for the Yonex 2012 All-England title after succumbing to injury.

The World No.1 shuttler was set to take on World No.2 Lin Dan in yet another classic final encounter between the two before he was forced into calling it a day in the second set.

Beginning the match with obvious heavy-duty bandaging of his right shoulder, it was as quickly obvious that Chong Wei wasn't at his most comfortable. No such resemblance to his calm and confident stature at the last BWF Super Series finals when he took on Kenichi Tago at the Malaysian Open.

Lin Dan showed no mercy for the struggling Chong Wei, and took the first set with a 21-19 victory. However, it was clearly not one of Lin's easier victories as Chong Wei's sheer determination and clever play kept him close to his Chinese rival throughout the set.

After receiving medical treatment from doctors during the break, Chong Wei soldiered on into the second set. But after going down a couple of points to Lin Dan and having to call for more medical treatment, it soon became evident that Chong Wei couldn't go on anymore.

A quick chat with the officials, and it was over.

Chong Wei's pursuit of a third successive All-England title was over in a flash as China's Lin Dan walked away with victory.

Concerns now however turn to Chong Wei's fitness for the upcoming Olympics; a title that the Malaysian wants more than anything to win this year.

While the severity of his injuries haven't yet been revealed, rival Lin Dan seemed to think his counterpart would be alright in time for their potential future Olympic encounter.

Living today to fight tomorrow; could just work out perfectly for the Olympic-hungry Malaysian.

MSN Sports Malaysia would also like to acknowledge the tremendoussupport shown around the stadium last night for Chong Wei. Even amidsthis forfeiting the match, Malaysian fans were in full voice and chanting,"Chong Wei, Chong Wei" as the World No.1 sat on his bench; Nothing shortof incredible.