Chong Wei stays upbeat

PETALING JAYA: World No 1 Lee Chong Wei is prepared for disappointment even though he has been tipped to win his first-ever world title in London.

While stressing he is fully committed and well-prepared for the World Championships which starts next Monday, the Penangite did admit the meet was a good venue for him to further enhance his skills ahead of the London Olympics next year should things not go his way.

"I believe I'm better prepared this time. I'm focused and injury-free," said Chong Wei.

"This is my time, but if I donÂ't make it, I will learn from my mistakes and be better for the Olympics."

The 2008 Olympic silver medalist is training with the national contingent at the University of Bath, UK.

"I've not seen Lin Dan play for some time but IÂ've got surprises of my own nevertheless."

Chong Wei is set to put last year's campaign in Paris in the past. In the French capital, Chong Wei suffered a back injury after playing against Rajiv Ouseph in a Round 3 match and lost to Indonesian ace Taufik Hidayat in the quarterfinals.

Chong Wei is top seeded this year and is expected to face Chen Long in the quarterfinals. He could then meet either Chen Jin or Taufik in the semis.

Another player who is anxious for a memorable outing is seasoned shuttler Wong Choong Hann.

Choong Hann hopes to turn the tables on TaiwanÂ's Hsieh Yu Hsing in the first round. The lanky shuttler lost to Yu Hsing in their last two meetings.

However, it remains to be seen if Choong Hann has got what it takes to advance in the tournament. He is placed in the bottom half of the draw with the likes of Danish ace Peter Gade and second seed Lin Dan.

Choong Hann is set to leave for London on Saturday.