2018 Asian Games: Indonesia continues to catch badminton fever

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One of the, if not the, most popular sport at the Asian games, from the hosts perspective, is Badminton. Indonesia consistently performs well at major tournaments including the Olympics and IBF World Championships and home fans are hoping this event will be no exception. CGTN's Zhang Dan takes a look at how the local fans are enjoying watching the country's best shuttlers in their own backyard.

This isn't the final of the women's badminton event. It is actually just the quarter-final between Indonesia and South Korea. Thousands of fans attend to cheer on the host nation on the second day of these Asian Games since the opening ceremony and this stadium in Istora is always full. From ages ranging from 5 to 80 years old, Indonesian locals love to show their passion for the sport.

INDONESIA FAN "I am so happy I can come and cheer for my home country at the Asian Games. I have loved badminton since I was a little boy and I enjoy watching every game."

INDONESIA FANS "We just love badminton. We like to watch the matches no matter if we win or lose. This is so exciting."

At the opening ceremony, it is Susi Susanti, a female player, who lights the flame to officially start the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games. But names from the past, including Taufik Hidayat, a retired Indonesian shuttler who won gold at the 2004 Athens Olympics, are still highly thought of.

INDONESIA FAN "Taufik is a legend. He is the first male Indonesian player to win the Olympic gold, Asian Games gold, IBF world champion and Thomas cup. He is a hero of our country."

On this occasion, the hosts get past South Korea 3-1 and reach the semi-finals of the women's event, meaning this venue in Istora is only going to get louder. Zhang Dan, CGTN.