GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- Badminton superstar Lin Dan of China returned in style after a year on the sidelines, dominating the match from the start to register a straight victory in the first round of the World Badminton Championships held in south China's Guangzhou on 5 August 2013.

The reigning world champion, although dropped to No. 100 in the world rankings during his break and entered the tournament with a wild card, was too good for world No. 58 Sattawat Pongnairat of the United States, winning 21-6, 21-9 in only 27 minutes. (Photos China Sports Online/Zheng Xun)

Wang Zhengming, a rising star in China.

 
Lin Dan's archrival Lee Chong Wei of Malaysia.

 
Lee Chong Wei greeted by the enthusiastic local fans.

 
Lin Dan in action.

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