Life after retirement for Chinese badminton legend Lin Dan

Since stepping away from badminton, legendary Chinese player Lin Dan has focused on growing his business ventures and supporting his son's tennis career, frequently traveling between Spain and China.

Nicknamed "Super Dan," the badminton icon retired in 2020. Instead of pursuing a coaching career, Lin chose to enter the business world, capitalizing on his immense commercial value. In 2015, during his peak popularity, Lin’s advertising income alone exceeded 100 million yuan ($13.7 million), according to Chinese media outlet Sohu.

Lin also founded the Lin Dan Badminton Club, which quickly thrived, expanding to at least five branches in Shenzhen alone, bringing in great profit. The former athlete’s sharp business mind has secured financial stability, allowing him a comfortable life post-retirement.

Badminton legend Lin Dan and his family. Photo taken from Weibo

Over the past six months, Lin’s wife and son have primarily lived in Spain, sparking speculation that the family might relocate permanently and even change their son’s nationality. However, on April 9, Lin posted a video on social media clarifying that his son, Xiao Wu, was only in Spain for tennis training and had no intention of changing nationality. Lin added that he himself still has ongoing business in China, so he regular travels between two countries, 163 reported.

Lin, 41, is regarded as one of the greatest badminton players in history. He was ranked number one globally and won a collection of prestigious titles, including two Olympic gold medals, four World Championship titles, two Badminton World Cups, five Sudirman Cups, six Thomas Cups and five Asian Games gold medals. Lin, alongside Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia), Taufik Hidayat (Indonesia), and Peter Gade Christensen (Denmark), is considered one of badminton’s "Big Four".

Lin met his wife, fellow badminton star Xie Xingfang, in 1997. They began dating seven years later and officially registered their marriage at the end of 2010, celebrating with a wedding ceremony in 2012.

Their first son was born in early November 2016. However, shortly after his son's birth, Lin faced controversy when news of an extramarital affair surfaced. He publicly admitted his wrongdoing and sought forgiveness from his wife. Xie ultimately forgave Lin and the couple has since overcome their past struggles.

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