Ten and counting for China coach with world record trophy haul

China coach Li Yongbo receives recognition from Guinness World Records representatives for winning the most Sudirman Cups, Oct 29, 2015. [Photo/ Guinness World Records Weibo]

The badminton coach who has led the Chinese national team to the most Sudirman Cup triumphs has been honored by Guinness World Records.

Li Yongbo, 53, a former professional player, began coaching the national team after retiring from playing in 1993, a year after badminton had become an Olympic sport.

At the time the national team was at a low ebb because available players were either inexperienced or about to retire.

His overhaul initially failed to pay dividends, but his career turned around in 1995 when the team won its first Sudirman Cup. Since then Li has led China to nine more victories, in 1997, 1999, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015, only missing out in 2003.

The Sudirman Cup, for the world mixed team championship, takes place biennially, and features five matches in every round: men’s and women's singles, men’s and women's doubles and mixed doubles. The trophy is named in memory of Dick Sudirman, a former Indonesian player and official. The tournament was launched in 1989, three years after his death..

The Thomas Cup, for the world men's team championships, and the Uber Cup, for the world women's team championships, make up the three major team tournaments hosted by the Badminton World Federation.