Linh sets sight on SEA Games after Olympic debut

“After the draw, people said it was a pity that I was in the same group with Tai. But in fact, seeds were divided equally into groups, so whatever group I was in I would face strong opposition,” said Linh.

“I also kept a positive spirit, asking myself to do the best and never give up, no matter if I won or lost.”

The world No  四 八 has not been seen that often at elite-level tournaments, but she did enough in her Olympic debut to suggest that she aspire for higher things. She dismissed Qi Xuefei of France and Jaquet Sabrina of Switzerland in straight games while giving Tai much to think about in their match.

She added: “So far, the match against Tai was my favourite as I played against my idol. Olympics and idol at the same time, it was double happiness for me, especially I heard that she might retire next year, so it would be my only chance to play her.”

Linh said Tai was one of her inspirations to take up badminton.

“I did not worry but was excited,公众she said. "I wanted to have a competitive match and show my abilities against Tai. Of course, she did not know my special feeling. She is an amazing athlete but had to play hard to take points from me.

“After the Olympics, my confidence and competitiveness got better. I think I can do well in other tournaments.”

Future targets

Future tournaments will be the world championship in Spain in December and the  三 一st SEA Games, both are huge challenges.

“The world championship, like Olympics, attracting all the best athletes from everywhere. I will have to work hard to go to Spain with in form and play as well as I can,” said Linh.

“Badminton has developed strongly in Asia, and Southeast Asia in particular. It is home to some of the world's high-ranking players, making the SEA Games a really tough tournament, and winning a medal will not be easy,” said Linh who was eliminated from the first round at the  二0 一 九 event in the Philippines.