Daijiworld Media Network - Seoul

Seoul, Mar 23: Long before K-Pop and K-dramas took the world by storm, South Korean badminton legend Lee Yong-dae had already captured the imagination of millions. His sharp suits, effortless charm, and dazzling game made him the ultimate poster boy of the sport, transcending national boundaries and earning him an almost cult-like following across Asia.

At just 19, Yong-dae became an Olympic champion in mixed doubles at the 2008 Beijing Games. His style of play—fluid, precise, and artistic—made him a spectacle on the court, while his warm smile won over fans worldwide. From 2008 to 2018, he was the undisputed heartthrob of badminton, adored in Korea, Japan, China, Thailand, and Indonesia, cutting across fierce national rivalries.

His career, however, was not without heartbreak. In 2018, he suffered a personal blow when his longtime doubles partner, Jung Jae-sung, passed away at just 35. Struggling emotionally, Yong-dae briefly retired but later returned to the court, more for his love of the game than the pursuit of titles. Even in his second stint, fans filled arenas just to witness his magic.

Now 36, Yong-dae has taken on a new role—mentoring the next generation. At the recent All England Open, he guided Seo Seung-jae and Kim Won-ho to victory, helping Korea reclaim the men’s doubles title after 13 years. The moment was emotional, as the last Korean pair to win was none other than Yong-dae and Jung Jae-sung in 2012.

Despite his global fame, Yong-dae remains deeply connected to his roots. Hailing from Hwasun, a quiet town he still cherishes, he carries the values of hard work and humility. Known for his relentless training sessions, he believes in treating every point like a match point—a mindset that made him one of the finest doubles players in history.

Even today, his popularity endures, though he takes it in stride. “I’m not recognized as much now, but some still remember,” he once said. But to badminton fans, Lee Yong-dae will always be the man who made the sport look not just competitive, but effortlessly cool.