Marc1313, that is a very interesting perspective to have!

It intrigues me, because my views on that matchup are slightly different! I will watch again and consider what you have said. To my mind, Lin Dan, although using deception every now and then to try and disrupt Lee Chong Wei, I feel ultimately is making use of the most basic shots, but performing them to a high standard and trying to deprive Lee Chong Wei of time, but building vast pressure with unfaltering simplicity. He seems to me, to play with the intension of getting there fast, and playing simple shots quickly. His speed onto the shuttle means lee chong wei has to “be careful” of the threats from lin dan who is giving himself options by taking the shuttle early, whilst lin dans “identical” shot preparation is an excellent form of deception in itself. However, I personally would not class Lin Dan as a deceptive player, because I feel his game plan is not centred around this, unlike a player such as Pullela Gopichand mentioned earlier, who seems to play with sole intention to confuse and fool his opponent.

Interesting, that watching the final of the All England between Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan this year, I actually felt that LCW is moving BETTER now, than he used to, which is saying an awful lot I know – this seems to me to reinforce what I was trying to hint at earlier – Lee Chong Wei has actually improved his court coverage (and obviously his tactics, shot production and everything else) in order to become at ease on court, even against the great Lin Dan. Although Lin Dan was fantastic, he didn't look, to me, truly as if he were comfortable/playing the type of game that he wanted to be playing. Lee Chong Wei on the other hand, seemed at ease, comfortable with the pace on court, and in control of the tempo of most of the rallies. It was probably the most exceptional match I have watched, and I feel truly privileged to have witnessed that particular match.

I do so love this sport! There are so many intricate things that make it what it is, and everyone sees different ones!