GLASGOW: Lin Dan has sent out a clear warning to long-time rival Lee Chong Wei that he is determined as ever to win the world title for a sixth time at the World Championships in Glasgow this year.
Lin Dan, who will open his campaign against Kieran Merrilees of Scotland in the first round tomorrow, said he will not make things easy for Chong Wei.
"Obviously, I want to be world champion for a sixth time, that is my dream. However, to achieve it I have to work hard and it definitely will not be easy for me," said the 33-year-old.
"I know a lot of people are talking about me playing Chong Wei in the final. All I can say is that I will give it everything I have."
Meanwhile, Chong Wei, who will only play Frenchman Brice Leverdez on Tuesday, is not thinking about Lin Dan, instead focusing only on his preparations.
"My preparations for this tournament have gone well, especially with Datuk Misbun Sidek back as my coach. I have already been in the final three times, I have nothing to lose.
"What is important now is to focus on my own preparations. I do not want to think too far ahead, I'll take it one match at a time."
Meanwhile, former world junior champion Zulfadli Zulkifli said he is better prepared to compete in the World Championships this time.
Zulfadli, who will be making only his second appearance in the tournament, said he had learnt a lot from his experience competing in the 2015 edition of the world meet in Jakarta.
He will open against Artem Pochtarov of Ukraine tomorrow.