I don't think BWF granted wild card to LD solely because of his achievements, which no doubt were unprecedented. I think the primary reason was because LD vs LCW is what everybody wants to see (including Malaysia Boleh fans). If LCW didn't enter this WC (for whatever reason), BWF would not have granted the wild card to LD.
For me, it does set the bar for a wildcard in LD's case, and ones similar to it. I don't know what was the reason given by the BWF, but I believe that should be the benchmark for a performance/achievement-based wildcard. Of course, the BWF may have had other concerns such as commercial value, to draw interest to the tournament, etc; I am not commenting on those aspects. And I am genuinely curious what other "creative or bold ways" there are for the BWF to use a wildcard. Care to name some examples? To your analogy, I don't think that it is entirely accurate. It should be the role of a government to promote social/economic equality, it is not the BWF's, in my opinion, to promote equality, but rather to push the game by letting the best compete. Again, perhaps if you gave some examples of what other uses of wildcards that you have in mind, I can get a clearer picture of what you are driving at.
BWF tried to force female dress code rule, I would say that is bold and maybe slightly creative.(although a bit of copycat) There are many ways that BWF tried but nothing is bold and creative.
Wild cards can be used for anybody, I guess that's why it's called "wild". It usually is to make a tournament more interesting. For example, to enter a home player to create more local interest in the event. Or to enter a semi-retired former champion. Or a promising player. Or a good player who could not qualify due to missing half the qualification period to injury. Anything ...
Thrumb up to both of u Badmintion is a borderless sports, as badmintion fans, we cheer for both great badmintion players regardless where we are from
Served BWF right. See : http://www.thestar.com.my/Sport/Badminton/2013/08/20/Super-Dan-takes-swipe-at-BWF.aspx