KUNSHAN, China (AFP) - Chinese badminton legend Lin Dan vowed to find his Thomas Cup "rhythm" after scrambling to salvage a three-game win over an unknown French opponent at the world team championship in Kunshan, China.

The world No. 3 described his Monday night opening match as "tough", after dropping the first game to France's Lucas Corvee before storming back to win 20-22, 21-14, 21-8.

"I didn't expect to win this match in such a tough way," said Lin, according to Xinhua. "But it doesn't mean that I played badly, this match will help me to get fit and find my rhythm."

Following the sub-par performance the 32-year-old vowed to give his all during his eighth appearance at the team championships.

"I will do my best," the two-time Olympic gold medallist said.

Despite his slow start, the Chinese men walloped France 5-0, securing a spot in the tournament's quarter-finals.

After sweeping France and Mexico, the tournament favourites and home nation are set to square off with Japan on Wednesday, where they will be hungry to avenge the shock 2014 defeat.