Chen Long—two-time world champion, three-time Olympic medalist, and a cornerstone of the Chinese National Badminton Team—has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng. These rising shuttlers are showing remarkable progress on their path to the 2024 Paris Olympics, demonstrating specific gameplay elements reminiscent of Chen Long’s iconic style. Years of mentorship, rigorous practice, and strategic fine-tuning have resulted in performance traits that mirror Chen Long’s highly regarded defensive and counter-attacking framework.

A deeper look at Chen Long’s methods reveals how such strategies propelled Shi Yuqi into the top spot and helped Li Shifeng climb the global rankings. Whether the goal is to sharpen backcourt defense, develop mental toughness, or adopt eco-conscious sports gear, a wealth of actionable insights emerges from examining Chen Long’s approach.

The Essence of Chen Long’s Legacy

Chen Long’s game balances consistency, discipline, and mental poise. Instead of flashy jump smashes or trick shots, his style is rooted in:

• Precision Defense: Managing pressure from elite attackers like Lee Chong Wei.
• Calculated Counter-Attacks: Turning neutral or defensive shots into winning opportunities.
• Mental Mastery: Outlasting opponents through rally control and patience.

These core principles have not only driven his own success but now influence the technical foundation of Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng.

Rising Stars: Shi Yuqi (石宇奇) and Li Shifeng (李诗沣)

Both players have integrated Chen Long’s strategies into their playstyles:

• Shielding Offensive Threats: Reducing attack opportunities through quick drives and half-smashes.
• Anticipating Return Patterns: Using quality placement to predict and counter opponent moves.
• Mental Composure: Holding nerve during long rallies and waiting for clear openings.

Their rise in the global rankings confirms the relevance and power of Chen Long’s foundational approach. Watching their matches, especially in tight third sets, shows how often they rely on quality neutral shots to regain initiative and dictate pace.

Core Tenets of Chen Long’s Defensive Blueprint

Backcourt Dynamics

Rather than lifting, Chen Long frequently plays:

• Fast Drives: Reduce time for opponent setup.
• Half-Smashes: Maintain position without inviting strong counters.

His shots from the backcourt are designed not just to return the shuttle but to control the next exchange. A drive might not end the rally, but it forces a predictable response that Chen Long can prepare for.

Suggested Image: Backcourt action shot.

The Fast Push

Unlike traditional lifts, Chen Long’s pushes are:

• Flatter & Quicker: Difficult to attack.
• Surprising: Forcing off-balance replies from opponents.

Executed with just the right wrist flick and minimal backswing, this shot is ideal when transitioning from defense to neutral.

Counter-Attacks via Cross Blocks

After forcing a backcourt shot, he often:

• Cross Blocks: Redirects smashes to create open space.
• Follows Up: Finishes the rally with a fast smash or drive.

This pattern can be seen in his matches against aggressive players like Viktor Axelsen. Chen Long draws the smash, uses a tight cross block, and pounces on the reply.

Fortifying the Mental Game

Mental endurance is crucial in Chen Long’s style:

• Patience: Sustains rallies until rivals take risky shots.
• Pressure Creation: Consistent play that wears down opponents.
• Cue Reading: Recognizing movement and stroke patterns early.

Tournaments are not only physically demanding—they’re mentally grueling. Chen Long’s ability to stay composed during championship points and long rallies shows his exceptional mental training.

Tactics for Every Player

Practical takeaways from Chen Long’s strategy:

• Use Drives & Half-Smashes: Safer than lifts when late to the shuttle.
• Apply Fast Pushes: Add pressure and disrupt rhythm.
• Reset with Midcourt Blocks: Regain control when under threat.
• Stay Mentally Grounded: Capitalize on errors through calm and precision.

Training Drills to Master Chen Long’s Style

To implement these concepts, try the following drills:

• Drive Rally Drill: Focus on drive exchanges from the midcourt. Keep your knees bent and your returns flat and fast.
• Fast Push Placement: With a partner, practice pushing to both corners quickly and accurately.
• Cross Block Recovery: Set up with a feeder delivering smashes. Practice cross-blocking and recovering to a balanced base.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is defense important in badminton?

A strong defense prevents easy points and forces your opponent to take riskier shots. Players like Chen Long demonstrate that a solid defense can create offensive opportunities and mentally exhaust attackers.

What is a fast push in badminton?

A fast push is a flat shot directed deep into the opponent’s backcourt. Unlike a clear or lift, it’s delivered at a lower trajectory with more speed, catching your opponent off-balance.

What equipment does Chen Long use?

While Chen Long’s personal gear includes professional-grade rackets and feather shuttlecocks, players can still emulate his style using affordable and eco-friendly options like Airchy shuttlecocks.

From Defense to Dominance

Chen Long’s methodical approach offers a masterclass in consistency, timing, and control. By studying and adopting his game plan, players can improve shot quality, tactical patience, and defensive reliability.

Shi Yuqi and Li Shifeng’s current success proves the power of this model. Combining Chen Long’s style with a commitment to sustainability positions players not just to win—but to lead badminton into a smarter, more responsible era.

Eco-Friendly Considerations in Badminton

Airchy promotes ethical, sustainable badminton through:

• Cruelty-Free Shuttlecocks: Alternatives to animal-feather products.
• Responsible Manufacturing: Reducing the sport’s environmental impact.
• Athlete Influence: Top players like Chen Long set an example for the global community.