Lin Dan Opens Beijing Coffee Shop With Korean Brand

When Olympic badminton legend Lin Dan tied on a brown apron and served his first-ever hand-brewed coffee to a customer behind the counter, it wasn’t just another celebrity cameo. This time, the two-time gold medallist was stepping into the coffee business for real—partnering with a South Korean coffee brand to open his own café in Beijing.

Lin Dan’s new coffee shop, dubbed 'Coffee Lin Dan,' officially opened its doors in Beijing yesterday. The former world No. 1 isn’t just lending his name—he’s actively involved, even crafting a latte with a hand-drawn badminton pattern on the foam for the first customer.

Why Did Lin Dan Open a Coffee Shop?

The reason is simple: his wife, retired badminton star Xie Xingfang, loves coffee. 'Because Xie Xingfang really enjoys it, we decided to give it a try,' Lin Dan explained. While she’s always been a coffee fan, he’d never made her a cup—until now. On opening day, he took over the barista role and surprised the first guest with a latte topped with an artistic espresso shot featuring a badminton motif.

The Businessman Behind the Superstar

This isn’t Lin Dan’s first entrepreneurial venture. He’s also the founder of his own fashion label, 'LD,' and has become something of a style icon off the court. Just three days before the café launch, he appeared on China’s hit TV show The Brain alongside national badminton coach Li Yongbo—and earlier that same week, he turned heads at a commercial event wearing a striking red suit that wowed fashion observers. Industry insiders praise his fashion sense, often calling him 'the David Beckham of Chinese badminton.' Luxury brands have specifically cited his sharp style as a key reason for working with him, alongside his athletic achievements.

Still Training for Rio

Despite his growing list of business ventures and public appearances, Lin Dan hasn’t ruled out a return to competitive badminton. In fact, he confirmed he’ll be back on court next month. 'I will return to competition at the China Masters in Changzhou next month,' he stated. That tournament, part of the China Badminton Super Series, marks his first official points event of the new cycle. He also made it clear he’s aiming for the Rio Olympics, where fans hope to see him face off against rival Lee Chong Wei once again. Despite juggling brand deals, media events, and now café ownership, sources close to the athlete say his training routine remains as strict as ever. 'He never cuts corners,' said one insider. 'He still trains regularly, brings his own fitness coach, and finds time to work out whenever he can.'

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the name of Lin Dan’s new coffee shop in Beijing?

The coffee shop is called 'Coffee Lin Dan' and is a collaboration with a South Korean coffee brand. It officially opened in Beijing, where Lin Dan served customers himself, including crafting a custom latte for the first visitor.

Why did Lin Dan decide to open a coffee shop?

Lin Dan opened the coffee shop because his wife, Xie Xingfang, is a coffee enthusiast. He mentioned that her love for coffee inspired the decision, and it marks his first personal business venture outside of sports and endorsements.

What did Lin Dan do for the first customer at his coffee shop?

For the first customer, Lin Dan prepared a latte and added a unique touch: he drew a badminton pattern on the milk foam. It was the first coffee he had ever personally brewed and served.

Is Lin Dan retiring from badminton?

No, Lin Dan has confirmed he is not retiring. He will return to competitive play at the China Masters in Changzhou next month, his first official tournament of the new season, and he intends to compete in the Rio Olympics.

What other business does Lin Dan have besides the coffee shop?

In addition to the coffee shop, Lin Dan founded his own fashion line called 'LD.' He has also been active in various commercial endorsements and media appearances, earning recognition for his fashion sense and style.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Coffee Lovers

FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Humbera offers bright citrus and floral notes with a juicy body—perfect for those who appreciate specialty coffee like Lin Dan’s barista-style latte. For a richer option, try the PWN Golden Mandheling, with its deep chocolate and nutty profile ideal for milk drinks. Both beans showcase the quality and care that match Lin Dan’s hands-on café approach. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.