Lin Dan denies retirement rumors following 1st round exit from BWF Fuzhou China Open

"I didn't know the rumors [that I will retire after Fuzhou China Open], I think it's too early to talk about retirement. I won't give up trying to qualify for the 2020 Olympics until the last minute," Lin told reporters.

"This is tough, but also meaningful."

The 36-year-old veteran got the upper hand in the opening minutes on home soil and led 11-6 before Chen came back from behind for a 16-all tie. At the clutch time, Lin withstood the challenge from the Rio Olympic champion, finishing the first game in 21-19.