Gade-Christensen's recovery complete with Malaysia win

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 21 (Reuters) Denmark's Peter Gade-Christensen survived a mid-match lapse to defeat China's Bao Chunlai 21-15 17-21 21-14 in the final to win the men's singles title at the Malaysian Open today.

The veteran world number five threw his racket into the crowd in celebration at the climax of an amazing nine days that started with him being rushed to hospital after he suffered headaches and vomiting on his flight from Europe.

''To win here under the difficult circumstances is just incredible,'' Gade-Christensen told reporters.

''It's a very special feeling to win the first Super Series tournament, here in Kuala Lumpur, and it's something I will always remember.

''Before I came here, I was in my best form ever but then I got sick and it was up in the air. But with the support of my coach and physio, I was able to play.

''I got better and better as the tournament went on and to beat Bao in a tough final is very special.'' Gade-Christensen earned ,000 for his victory while Bao took home 6,400 dollar.

The Malaysian Open is the first leg of a 12-tournament Super Series tour which Badminton World Federation officials hope will boost the sport's appeal.

After easily winning the first set, third-fourth seed Gade-Christensen loosened his grip on the match, allowing Bao to win points at will as the Chinese player levelled the scores.

Bao rode the momentum into the third set, racing to a 6-2 lead, but the Dane showed great character to fight back to 6-6 before building a decisive 16-10 advantage.

In the women's singles final, fifth-eighth seed Zhu Lin of China was too strong for local hope Wong Mew Choo, winning 21-15 21-12.

China also triumphed in the mixed doubles final with Gao Ling and Zheng Bo beating England's Gail Emms and Nathan Robertson 21-12 14-21 21-15.

REUTERS PDS VC1502