China's top badminton player Lin Dan was noticeably absence from the Indonesia Super Series with an alleged injury, triggering dismay from the Indonesia badminton association.

A spokeswoman from the Indonesia Badminton Association insisted that the world number one shuttler enrolled to play in the matches, but didn't receive word he wouldn't be coming until the day before the tournament.

"We're sorry to hear that Lin didn't show up as local fans were looking forward to watching him play," said the unnamed spokeswoman. "Lin was listed as the top seed in the tournament entirely because he signed up the match."

There are numerous rumors swirling as to why he withdrew from the tournament: Injury, out of shape, or avoiding a head-to-head meeting with arch rival Taufik Hidayat, Indonesia's Olympic champion, ahead of the Beijing Olympics. "Despite all that, China didn't explain why the top-rank shuttler quit without proper reasons, "she added.

The Indonesian team cannot accept Lin's sudden absence and may decide to take action. The country's head coach said, "Since China hasn't sent the top shuttler to attend Indonesian matches, we will not dispatch famed shuttlers like Olympic champion Taufik for next year's badminton super match in southwest China," he said. "It is a tradition to respect each other."

An accusation saying that Lin's absence was "premeditated" was denied by Chinese badminton head coach Li Yongbo. "The 'absence' was included in our strategic adjustment according to the whole year's schedule and the shuttler's personal status.

"In addition, there is no need for a top favorite to worry about his points for the Olympics, even if he gave the Indonesian Super Series a pass," he added.

Lin's no-show at the tournament may also be a psychological trick China learned from its rivals. For example, Taufik agreed to attend a match but to quit before the games began, such as last year's China Open, and world championships.

(China Daily May 15, 2007)