Gopichand says more glory days ahead

New All England badminton champion Pullela Gopichand said on Wednesday his glory days had just begun.

"This crown is what I'd always dreamt of. Now I'm going to stay right on top. I want to continue winning and see what the word looks like from here," Gopichand said at a reception.

"It's a great moment for me. Words cannot express what I truly feel. So many people have contributed to this win, I want to thank them all."

Gopichand, who beat Olympic champion Ji Xenping of China and world number one Peter Gade of Denmark on his way to the final, became the second Indian to win the All England title when he beat China's Chen Hong 15-12 15-6 on Sunday.

Gopichand's former coach and mentor Prakash Padukone, who he trained with until two years ago before leaving to work with the Sports Authority of India's Ganguly Prasado, won the title in 1980.

Padukone was among the various fans and badminton officials present at the reception.

"Gopi deserves full credit for what he's done. Lots of people have been involved in his career but he has beaten many odds to get here. I congratulate him," Padukone said.

Gopichand said Padukone was the first to call him at his hotel after he won the title.

"I have learnt so much of my badminton from Prakash sir," Gopichand said.

"All my deception and control comes from him. But I've also got a chance to work with some good coaches in India and abroad."