Centenarian Badminton Player Wins Exhibition Match at World Masters Games
The world's oldest active badminton player, 104-year-old Lin Yu-mao, proves that age is just a number at the World Masters Games, winning an exhibition doubles match where he was paired with Olympic champion Lee Yang.
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104-Year-Old Badminton Legend Kicks Off World Masters Games in Taiwan
The World Masters Games in Taiwan opened with an electrifying moment as 104-year-old Lin Yu-mao, the world’s oldest active badminton player, ignited the ceremonial flames alongside four other Taiwanese icons.
“When I walked in, I was very happy and very honored,” Lin said.
A beloved figure in Taiwan, Lin has been playing badminton for more than 50 years. At the Games in Taipei, he participated in an exhibition doubles match, teaming up with Taiwanese Olympic gold medalist Lee Yang. The pair triumphed over Lee’s father and Lee’s former coach.
Despite his competitive spirit, Lin didn’t enter the official competition. The reason? “Because I am old, you can rarely find someone my age still standing in the badminton hall,” he said. “If there were other badminton players over the age of 100, then I would be competing.”
“Most badminton players only play up to around 80 years old,” he added. “None are over 90, much less 100. I’ve lived to over 100, I’m the only one left.”
Lin’s athletic journey began much earlier with tennis, pole vaulting, and tai chi. But he only discovered badminton at age 50. Since then, he has amassed countless trophies and medals.
“[Badminton] is really fast-paced,” he said. “When you make a smash, when you make a save, everyone around me bursts into thunderous applause. It’s really lively and intense.”
Lin has made health and fitness a lifelong priority. He has suffered one serious injury in his decades-long athletic career—losing his right eye in a training accident. Still, he remains optimistic and upbeat. His attitude is even shown through his wardrobe.
“I’ve always loved wearing red because red makes me feel more passionate,” he said.
“My life is all about exercising more, singing more, dancing more and doing more good deeds.”
That passion caught the attention of Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang at the opening ceremony. When asked about the secret to his vitality, Lin quipped: “Look at beautiful women.”
Lin continues to hit the badminton court three times a week. At 104, he’s not just a symbol of longevity, but of spirited living.
