BAOJI - Olympic gold medalist Chen Long helped Fujian beat Zhejiang 5-0 in the men's group event of the ongoing 2020 Chinese Badminton Championships here on Thursday.

World No. 5 Chen defeated Dong Yuxuan of Zhejiang 21-8, 21-18 in the opening men's singles. It was the Olympic champion's first game of the Chinese championships since 2012.

There are many young players who want to challenge me in the stage, so for me, both international games or domestic events are all very tough.

Chen Long, Olympic gold medalist, China

"There are many young players who want to challenge me in the stage, so for me, both international games or domestic events are all very tough," Chen told Xinhua after his match.

ALSO READ: Chen Long survives scare to reach last 8 at badminton worlds

"The atmosphere of our team is easy, we don't set any goals in the tournament, but we all are trying to do our best on the court," Chen added.

Under Chen's encouragement, his young teammates from Fujian won the rest of their matches against Zhejiang. Chen's Fujian team had secured a position in the last eight, setting up a Shanghai clash on Friday.

The team events quarterfinals will be held on Saturday. The two team events winners will secure the No.1 seed position for the 14th China National Games in 2021.

READ MORE: 8 National Games venues completed, 78 buildings at Games Village capped

The tournament ends on Nov 10.