Top-ranked Lee Chong Wei of Malaysia crashed out of the Indian Open in the first round yesterday, losing to China's Chen Long.

Chen, the 2007 world junior champion, rallied after losing the first game to pull off a stunning 7-21, 21-16, 21-18 victory over Lee, the runner-up at All England and winner of the Swiss Open this year.

Chen took full advantage of the erratic Lee, who blamed the defeat on weakness caused by a bout of food poisoning.

"I've been on medication since I came here," the No. 1-ranked Lee said. "I must have eaten something that did not agree with me during my flight here from Switzerland and wasn't feeling anywhere near my best."

Lee has been in good form this year, reaching the All England final where he lost to Lin Dan of China, but rebounded to defeat the same opponent in the title contest at the Swiss Open.

Chen has steadily moved up the world rankings after missing most of 2008 with an ankle injury.

(Agencies via Shanghai Daily March 26, 2009)