.
In another 5 days, we will arrive at the Year 2008, the Year of the Beijing Olympics 2008.

For Badminton at the Olympics, only 7 nations have ever won any medals, namely; China(22), Indonesia(15), South Korea(14), Denmark(4), Malaysia(3), Great Britain(2) and The Netherlands(1).

If we were to look at the Gold medals with interest, only 4 nations have ever won Gold medals, namely; China(8), Indonesia(5), South Korea(5) and Denmark(1). And for the Gold medals ever won, the events are as follows;
1 MS + 0 MD + 2 WS + 3 WD + 2 XD = 8 for China
2 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 5 for Indonesia
0 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 1 WD + 1 XD = 5 for South Korea
1 MS + 0 MD + 0 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 1 for Denmark

Question: Who will win the Badminton Gold medals@Beijing Olympics 2008 ?

Could it be as follows ?
MS to China (LIN Dan)
MD to Malaysia (KOO Kien Keat / TAN Boon Heong)
WS to China (ZHU Lin)
WD to China (GAO Ling / HUANG Sui)
XD to Indonesia (NATSIR Lilyana / WIDIANTO Nova)

What do you think ? :):):)
.

i hope the mens single will be Lee Chong Wei

i hope the mens single will be Lee Chong Wei



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If only Lee Chong Wei is carrying no more injuries when August 2008 comes, he would be a very strong contender.

In fact, he was my choice for MS Gold before his injuries that happened in the Denmark Super Series 2007.
.

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From The Jakarta Post.com, came this article, located at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/detailsports.asp?fileid=20071227.I01&irec=0

====== ====== start article ====== ======

Mixed doubles Indonesia's biggest chance at Olympics
The Jakarta Post.com
Jakarta, 27-December-2007

Indonesia is hoping to win a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in the badminton mixed doubles after a successful 2007.

Badminton Association of Indonesia (PBSI) official in charge of training Lius Pongoh said Wednesday that from May to the end of the year, double world champions Nova Widianto and Lilyana Natsir and teammates Flandy Limpele and Vita Marissa had collected many points from the Super Series tournaments they had participated in.

The Badminton World Federation's Web site lists Nova and Lilyana as having collected 70,574 points and ranks them second in the world while Flandy and Vita are in fourth place with 63,109 points.

"The Super Series are the qualifying tournaments for the Olympics. Shuttlers have to join the competitions and collect as many points as they can from May 2007 to April 2008," said Lius.

"So far, the two pairs have the biggest chance at the event. But we will know the qualified shuttlers on May 1."

During 2007, Nova and Lilyana won three titles -- the Philippines Open, the World Championships and the China Open Super Series. Flandy and Vita also grabbed three titles -- the Aviva Open Singapore Super Series, the Yonex Chinese Taipei Grand Prix Gold and the French Super Series.

There are six more world tournaments to come: the Proton Malaysia Super Series and Yonex Korea Super Series in January, the German Grand Prix Gold in February, the All England and Swiss Super Series in March and the Asia Championships Grand Prix Gold in April.

Lius said PBSI would prioritize winning gold medals at the Olympics while the Thomas Cup and Uber Cup team championships in Jakarta came second.

"It has been a tradition for Indonesia to win gold medals at the Olympics and we aim to continue the tradition. We hope to grab at least one gold," he said.

Men's singles coach Hendrawan said three shuttlers have a chance of qualifying for the Olympics.

"Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Taufik Hidayat and Simon Santoso still have big chances. But we will just pick the two highest ranked athletes. They have to work hard to get the two highest rankings," he said.

According to the BWF ranking, Sony, the runner-up at this year's world championships, is ranked sixth in the world, followed by 2005 world champion Taufik in seventh place and Simon in 11th.

====== ====== end article ====== ======
.

For sure Taufik will be one of the very dangerous Dark HoRSE in Beijing 2008.

INA's priorities will undoubtedly remain in the MD and XD fields.

MD: Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan
-- chance 40%. Depending on the eventual draw. They should remain as the top 2 seeds and will avoid Fu Haifeng/Cai Yun until the Final.

XD: Nova Widianto/Lilyana Natsir
Supporting role: Flandy Limpele/Vita Marissa
-- chance: 30%. Nova/Butet will also avoid Gao/Zheng and it's hopeful that Flandy/Vita also remain in the top 4 seeds.

For sure Taufik will be one of the very dangerous Dark HoRSE in Beijing 2008.



.
As at 4 months before the Beijing Olympics 2008, Taufik Hidayat is ranked 6th in the BWF's ranking.

For sure... TH will be making his presence felt @Beijing 2008. :):):)
.

.
As at 4 months before the Beijing Olympics 2008, Taufik Hidayat is ranked 6th in the BWF's ranking.

For sure... TH will be making his presence felt @Beijing 2008. :):):)
.
PBSI just hired an Australian to upgrade all INA players' stamina for coming Olympic....TH needs to be serious to get his stamina...otherwise it is tough...

INA's priorities will undoubtedly remain in the MD and XD fields.

MD: Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan
-- chance 40%. Depending on the eventual draw. They should remain as the top 2 seeds and will avoid Fu Haifeng/Cai Yun until the Final.

XD: Nova Widianto/Lilyana Natsir
Supporting role: Flandy Limpele/Vita Marissa
-- chance: 30%. Nova/Butet will also avoid Gao/Zheng and it's hopeful that Flandy/Vita also remain in the top 4 seeds.



.
Nova Widianto/Lilyana Natsir @ chance: 30% ??? :confused::confused::confused:

I would bet that Lilyana/Nova will do better than Gao/Zheng @Beijing Olympics 2008. ;););)
.

MARKIS KIDO/HENDRAWAN the best chance for INA to celebrate their gold medal in badminton in Beijing.

OMG!I dont even realise this thread.

Early 2007,i dont really have confidence on kkk/tbh.
This april,3 months left.Didnt get to see this pair in kedah.but overally,they slowly got the rhythm.
N i order to have the faith back,i think it would be a good sign.

chris@ccc, thanks for breaking down the facts in OG badminton event.

My guess would be

MS: Chinese trio - 70%, LCW - 25%
WS: Chinese trio - 50%, Tine - 20%, Hongky - 20%, WMC - 5%
MD: 25% to Indonesia, Korean, and Malaysia. 10% to CYC/FHF
WD: chinese trio - 95%, Korean - 5%
XD: Chinese 50%, Indonesia - 25%, Korean - 10%, and European - 10%

To be more specific

MS: LD
WS: XXF
MD: Markis/Hendrawan
WD: any of the three chinese double (who cares!)
XD: GL/ZB

For sure Taufik will be one of the very dangerous Dark HoRSE in Beijing 2008.

taufik wouldn't be a dark horse because everyone already respects how he can turn it up when it matters...and he's considered a favourite as well...so apart from the top 3 (LD TH LCW), i consider someone like sony dwi, or boonsak to be a darkhorse...or perhaps LHI if he's chosen over park sung hwan :p...but IMO...

MS: LD
WS: XXF or Tine Rasmussen
MD: Fu/Cai or Lee/Jung
WD: Zhang/Wei
XD: Widianto/Natsir

taufik will prove everyone wrong again. he's capable of winning when it really counts

MS: Chinese trio - 70%, LCW - 25%
WS: Chinese trio - 50%, Tine - 20%, Hongky - 20%, WMC - 5%
MD: 25% to Indonesia, Korean, and Malaysia. 10% to CYC/FHF
WD: Chinese trio - 95%, Korean - 5%
XD: Chinese 50%, Indonesia - 25%, Korean - 10%, and European - 10%



.
Hi yen_saw,

Sad but true, for China to capture Gold, their Gold medalists would be chosen by the one and only LYB. :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

So for us, your stated percentage chances expected for China to win Gold are more realistic. It is not easy to state the percentage chances for a particular Chinese player/pair. We cannot tell who would be/would not be chosen by LYB. :(:(:(

I also agree with you and xXazn_romeoXx, that Tine Rasmussen could have a chance to win the WS Gold. :):):)
.

MARKIS KIDO/HENDRAWAN the best chance for INA to celebrate their gold medal in badminton in Beijing.


chris@ccc, thanks for breaking down the facts in OG badminton event.

My guess would be

MS: Chinese trio - 70%, LCW - 25%
WS: Chinese trio - 50%, Tine - 20%, Hongky - 20%, WMC - 5%
MD: 25% to Indonesia, Korean, and Malaysia. 10% to CYC/FHF
WD: chinese trio - 95%, Korean - 5%
XD: Chinese 50%, Indonesia - 25%, Korean - 10%, and European - 10%

To be more specific

MS: LD
WS: XXF
MD: Markis/Hendrawan
WD: any of the three chinese double (who cares!)
XD: GL/ZB

It's not Hendrawan, it's HENDRA SETIAWAN. Hendrawan is a former MS player. He is a MS silver medalist in Sydney Olympic :cool:

After watching a few of LD's matches (Sudirman 05 vs. TH, WC05 vs. TH, WC07 vs. Sony), I realized that Morten was right in saying that LD would kind of "shut down" when meeting unexpected resistance from his opponent (when commenting LD vs. Jonassen AE 08 QF).

Taking into account that LCW was also not very strong mentally, I would say TH indeed has some real chance defending his gold medal, even with his current form.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level now. But the age factor is against the Indo pair when they meet in the final. If Nova cannot attack when he has the chance, then the result would be like AE 08 Final.

INA's priorities will undoubtedly remain in the MD and XD fields.

MD: Markis Kido/Hendra Setiawan
-- chance 40%. Depending on the eventual draw. They should remain as the top 2 seeds and will avoid Fu Haifeng/Cai Yun until the Final.

XD: Nova Widianto/Lilyana Natsir
Supporting role: Flandy Limpele/Vita Marissa
-- chance: 30%. Nova/Butet will also avoid Gao/Zheng and it's hopeful that Flandy/Vita also remain in the top 4 seeds.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level now. But the age factor is against the Indo pair when they meet in the final. If Nova cannot attack when he has the chance, then the result would be like AE 08 Final.

Agree. That's why INA has to hope that Zheng Bo/Gao Ling also do not perform their best :o

.
Hi yen_saw,

Sad but true, for China to capture Gold, their Gold medalists would be chosen by the one and only LYB. :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

So for us, your stated percentage chances expected for China to win Gold are more realistic. It is not easy to state the percentage chances for a particular Chinese player/pair. We cannot tell who would be/would not be chosen by LYB. :(:(:(

I also agree with you and xXazn_romeoXx, that Tine Rasmussen could have a chance to win the WS Gold. :):):)
.

LYB does decide who to play (and to win) during a tournament, especially for the OG, but if both chinese make it to the final, i don't think there will be any w/o incident. LYB would have both sides to give it all out for the gold. However, i wouldn't say the same if it is not final.

It's not Hendrawan, it's HENDRA SETIAWAN. Hendrawan is a former MS player. He is a MS silver medalist in Sydney Olympic :cool:

Pardon me, i meant to say Hendra Setiawan. Thanks for the correction Seasider.

After watching a few of LD's matches (Sudirman 05 vs. TH, WC05 vs. TH, WC07 vs. Sony), I realized that Morten was right in saying that LD would kind of "shut down" when meeting unexpected resistance from his opponent (when commenting LD vs. Jonassen AE 08 QF).

Taking into account that LCW was also not very strong mentally, I would say TH indeed has some real chance defending his gold medal, even with his current form.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level now. But the age factor is against the Indo pair when they meet in the final. If Nova cannot attack when he has the chance, then the result would be like AE 08 Final.

Honestly, saying LD would kind of "shut down" when meeting unexpected opponent or LCW being mentally weak doesn't make TH a favorable OG gold medalist in Beijing OG tournament. In fact, TH shows both the "shut down" and poor mental "syndrome" in his recent tournaments based on his performance. Every player wants to rasie up to occasion in a big tournament like OG, but only both physically and mentally fit players can do that, besides the skill and home court advantage.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level, but the home court might give the favor swing to the chinese team.

Agree. That's why INA has to hope that Zheng Bo/Gao Ling also do not perform their best :o

We can only hope, i am sure the chinese team is hoping for the same thing too. If the MD gold fall into chinese hand too, we can only hope Nova/Lilyana or Vita/F to stop chinese from a clean sweep.

I disagree. I didn't see TH "shutdown" in any of the recent tournaments. He lost because his opponents rose above his current level, as simple as that. Also my opinion is that he had difficulty closing games because he does not has the "turbo" button anymore, so there is basically nothing he can do to regain the control when his opponent fight all out at the crucial stages.

I also didn't say TH is "favorable", I just say considering mental strength, he would have significantly more chance than I previously thought (about 0%, or at most 5%).


Honestly, saying LD would kind of "shut down" when meeting unexpected opponent or LCW being mentally weak doesn't make TH a favorable OG gold medalist in Beijing OG tournament. In fact, TH shows both the "shut down" and poor mental "syndrome" in his recent tournaments based on his performance. Every player wants to rasie up to occasion in a big tournament like OG, but only both physically and mentally fit players can do that, besides the skill and home court advantage.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level, but the home court might give the favor swing to the chinese team.



We can only hope, i am sure the chinese team is hoping for the same thing too. If the MD gold fall into chinese hand too, we can only hope Nova/Lilyana or Vita/F to stop chinese from a clean sweep.

I disagree. I didn't see TH "shutdown" in any of the recent tournaments. He lost because his opponents rose above his current level, as simple as that. Also my opinion is that he had difficulty closing games because he does not has the "turbo" button anymore, so there is basically nothing he can do to regain the control when his opponent fight all out at the crucial stages.

I also didn't say TH is "favorable", I just say considering mental strength, he would have significantly more chance than I previously thought (about 0%, or at most 5%).

It is easy for you to say that, as it is always easier to make excuse of the lost to a more "superior" opponent rather than focusing on his own problem. Just like how players like to contribute their lost to linesman call, sudden surge of skills on weaker opponent, turbo charges from rivalry, etc. Actually, even TH admiting to having fatigue and not concentrating during the match, so that really translated into his weak mental and physical issues. TH was once a great player no doubt; However, his peak is fading fast but i understand many people held strong believing to his own "hero", as long as the "hero" is still playing.

You didn't use the word favorable i know. But when you compared his mental strength to LCW's mental strength in your previous post, that is to say you favor TH in winning the OG as compared to LCW or LD. If you mean something else or i missed what you said earlier i apologize in advance. BUt i believed you did mention that TH has a real chance of defending his Olypic gold medal this coming Beijing OG, so what chance (percentage) do you think he has now realistically? i am just surprise to see how much he could "improve" from 5% (which you previously thought) to putting him into a good chance of winning the gold medal.

It's funny that now "losing because opponent played better" becomes an "excuse"... I still remember how ppl are accused of "making excuses" when they "focusing on TH's own problem". Could you please give an example of a "reason of losing" that is definitely not an excuse? :confused:

I was talking about LD "shutdown", it's not merely "not concentrating" on one or two points. When LD "shutdown", he stops attacking and allows his opponent to win quite a few points in a row. Watch for example 05WC SF. When PG was at the edge of losing and fighted back, LD was frustrated and basically "allowed" PG to take the 2nd game.

To me, 15% is "real chance", 5% is not. "Real chance" means "not negligible". Now I believe TH has a chance about 15%.

I just said I think TH is mentally stronger than LD or LCW. Since badminton is not about mental strength only, I don't think my words can be interpreted as "favor TH in winning the OG as compared to LCW or LD". So indeed you misunderstood.

What I said is simply this, if we do not consider mental strength, currently TH is weaker than big guys like LD or LCW, or even not-that-big guys like BCL. How you interpreted this as I would not admit TH is "fading" is something I just could not understand. :confused:

It is easy for you to say that, as it is always easier to make excuse of the lost to a more "superior" opponent rather than focusing on his own problem. Just like how players like to contribute their lost to linesman call, sudden surge of skills on weaker opponent, turbo charges from rivalry, etc. Actually, even TH admiting to having fatigue and not concentrating during the match, so that really translated into his weak mental and physical issues. TH was once a great player no doubt; However, his peak is fading fast but i understand many people held strong believing to his own "hero", as long as the "hero" is still playing.

You didn't use the word favorable i know. But when you compared his mental strength to LCW's mental strength in your previous post, that is to say you favor TH in winning the OG as compared to LCW or LD. If you mean something else or i missed what you said earlier i apologize in advance. BUt i believed you did mention that TH has a real chance of defending his Olypic gold medal this coming Beijing OG, so what chance (percentage) do you think he has now realistically? i am just surprise to see how much he could "improve" from 5% (which you previously thought) to putting him into a good chance of winning the gold medal.

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If we were to look at the Gold medals with interest, only 4 nations have ever won Gold medals, namely; China(8), Indonesia(5), South Korea(5) and Denmark(1). And for the Gold medals ever won, the events are as follows;
1 MS + 0 MD + 2 WS + 3 WD + 2 XD = 8 for China
2 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 5 for Indonesia
0 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 1 WD + 1 XD = 5 for South Korea
1 MS + 0 MD + 0 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 1 for Denmark
.

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Regarding the MS, the strength of players, according to the current (27-March-2008) BWF ranking, are still in those 3 nations who have won Gold before, namely China, Indonesia and Denmark.

Can Malaysia or South Korea be able to join them?

27-March-2008 BWF MS Ranking
1. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif LIN Dan CHN
2. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/MAS.gif LEE Chong Wei MAS
3. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif BAO Chunlai CHN
4. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif CHEN Jin CHN
5. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/DEN.gif JONASSEN Kenneth DEN
6. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/INA.gif HIDAYAT Taufik INA
7. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/INA.gif DWI KUNCORO Sony INA
8. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/DEN.gif GADE Peter Hoeg DEN
9. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/KOR.gif LEE Hyun Il KOR
10. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/KOR.gif PARK Sung Hwan KOR

Let's watch out for LCW, LHI and PSH.
.

chris, nothing is impossible.. :D don't be surprised when some veterans such as peter gade n wch running the show in the finals... *fingers crossed* haha :D

chris, nothing is impossible.. :D don't be surprised when some veterans such as peter gade n wch running the show in the finals... *fingers crossed* haha :D

But they will have to be at peak fitness for that one tournament .... :D.

Still, they have one drawback they can't change, speed :(

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27-March-2008 BWF MS Ranking
1. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif LIN Dan CHN
2. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/MAS.gif LEE Chong Wei MAS
3. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif BAO Chunlai CHN
4. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/CHN.gif CHEN Jin CHN
5. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/DEN.gif JONASSEN Kenneth DEN
6. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/INA.gif HIDAYAT Taufik INA
7. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/INA.gif DWI KUNCORO Sony INA
8. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/DEN.gif GADE Peter Hoeg DEN
9. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/KOR.gif LEE Hyun Il KOR
10. http://internationalbadminton.org/flags/KOR.gif PARK Sung Hwan KOR
.



Still, they have one drawback they can't change, speed :(



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abedeng, are you sure they can't change their speed? :confused::confused::confused:

Just for fun sake, let's rank them for a 100 metres sprint race here. :):):)

Expected Sprint Result of the Top 10 MS players in a 100m race
LD for Gold
DK for Silver
CJ for Bronze
TH for Last

:D:D:D
.

Expected Sprint Result of the Top 10 MS players in a 100m race
LD for Gold
DK for Silver
CJ for Bronze
TH for Last

:D:D:D
.

You forgot the fastest of them all - Lee Chong Wei!
He would be towelling down long before any of the others finish the race :D

taufik will prove everyone wrong again. he's capable of winning when it really counts

the truth is this guy is not good enough. PERIOD. you can't just rely on the others play below par all the time.

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abedeng, are you sure they can't change their speed? :confused::confused::confused:

Just for fun sake, let's rank them for a 100 metres sprint race here. :):):)

Expected Sprint Result of the Top 10 MS players in a 100m race
LD for Gold
DK for Silver
CJ for Bronze
TH for Last

:D:D:D
.

Running speed, you mean .....:D Yeah, Wong and Gade can change that, just not the pace back and forth and side to side in the baddy court.

Noticed that Wong started slowing down in 2005, Gade last year. Made Gade more impatient and tense on court. :(

But they will have to be at peak fitness for that one tournament .... :D.



.
Yes, to be at one's peak fitness (physically and mentally) during the Games is really a must for all olympians.
.


Running speed, you mean .....:D



.
I was placing those Top 10 MS players in a 100 meters sprint race, and predicting how fast they would be running. :D:D:D
.


Just for fun sake, let's rank them for a 100 metres sprint race here. :):):)

Expected Sprint Result of the Top 10 MS players in a 100m race
LD for Gold
DK for Silver
CJ for Bronze
TH for Last

:D:D:D



.
I thought LD would sprint the fastest, although Oldhand thought that LCW should be the one. :D

But as we all know, for Badminton, the speed of footwork is just one of the many factors required to play well to win.

Correct me if I am wrong...... for me,
LD has the fastest and the most powerful footwork and stroke speed,
LCW has many deceptive strokes and the best jumping-to-stroke ability, and
TH has the best overall stroke-skill and the most efficient footwork(although slower)
.

Speed is a big factor?
I dont think so.Creativity is the one.
How to use all the strenght in the best way.

U judge 'Who will Win' based on speed?Come on guys.

Speed is a big factor?
I dont think so.Creativity is the one.
How to use all the strenght in the best way.

U judge 'Who will Win' based on speed?Come on guys.

When I mentioned about lack of speed, it was never meant to be a sole criteria for success. But gone are the days of Erland Kops, Rudy Hartono and Prakash Padukone.

Nowadays speed and the NSS can act as a good counter against creativity and skill. It's about putting the superior but slower player off balance.

Taufik vs LCW, WCH vs CJ, the Uncles vs KOR pair, results are now favouring speed. Of course, blind speed ala Shoji Sato doesn't work ...... :p

chris, nothing is impossible.. :D don't be surprised when some veterans such as peter gade n wch running the show in the finals... *fingers crossed* haha :D

Yeah, still possible that Peter Gade will shine in Olympic arena to follow Poul Erik H.Larsen who grabbed Atlanta Gold when his age almost turned 31. Olympic Gold Medalist, so hard to predict particularly MS discipline which always coloured by surprise. Alan Budikusuma, Poul Erik, Ji Xinpeng weren't the faves at those time Olympic Games (1992, 1996 and 2000). Even four years ago in Athens, LD was the top candidate to reach gold but he lost to unseeded player at first round.

WS -- CHN still has high percentage to pick gold but it's not a daydream for other contenders to deny China goal.
MD -- really weird, only two countries who had brought MD Olympic Gold (INA and KOR)
WD -- CHN is still dominant with their three pairs
XD -- INA or CHN (INA's biggest chance to continue Olympic Gold tradition)

Overall, it's almost impossible that CHN will create clean sweep in upcoming Beijing Games, need tough effort to overcome great pressure as the host to realize it.

After watching a few of LD's matches (Sudirman 05 vs. TH, WC05 vs. TH, WC07 vs. Sony), I realized that Morten was right in saying that LD would kind of "shut down" when meeting unexpected resistance from his opponent (when commenting LD vs. Jonassen AE 08 QF).

Taking into account that LCW was also not very strong mentally, I would say TH indeed has some real chance defending his gold medal, even with his current form.

GL/ZB and Nova/Lilyana are at the same level now. But the age factor is against the Indo pair when they meet in the final. If Nova cannot attack when he has the chance, then the result would be like AE 08 Final.

the best example of your theory is TH.
lost twice in a row to 2 unknown players:D

Yeah, still possible that Peter Gade will shine in Olympic arena to follow Poul Erik H.Larsen who grabbed Atlanta Gold when his age almost turned 31. Olympic Gold Medalist, so hard to predict particularly MS discipline which always coloured by surprise. Alan Budikusuma, Poul Erik, Ji Xinpeng weren't the faves at those time Olympic Games (1992, 1996 and 2000). Even four years ago in Athens, LD was the top candidate to reach gold but he lost to unseeded player at first round.

WS -- CHN still has high percentage to pick gold but it's not a daydream for other contenders to deny China goal.
MD -- really weird, only two countries who had brought MD Olympic Gold (INA and KOR)
WD -- CHN is still dominant with their three pairs
XD -- INA or CHN (INA's biggest chance to continue Olympic Gold tradition)

Overall, it's almost impossible that CHN will create clean sweep in upcoming Beijing Games, need tough effort to overcome great pressure as the host to realize it.

in other major event, World Championships,
Rudi Hartono & Hendrawan also win the title when they are 30 yrs already

the best example of your theory is TH.
lost twice in a row to 2 unknown players:D
See!! you make fun on Ina players again.....:mad:
Like WD CHN lost to unknown pair Vita/Lyliana too:D:D

Yeah, still possible that Peter Gade will shine in Olympic arena to follow Poul Erik H.Larsen who grabbed Atlanta Gold when his age almost turned 31. Olympic Gold Medalist, so hard to predict particularly MS discipline which always coloured by surprise. Alan Budikusuma, Poul Erik, Ji Xinpeng weren't the faves at those time Olympic Games (1992, 1996 and 2000). Even four years ago in Athens, LD was the top candidate to reach gold but he lost to unseeded player at first round.


top seed in OG
1992 : ZJH
1996 : ???
2000 : TH

who was the top seed in OG 1996?

Joko Suprianto, I think.

See!! you make fun on Ina players again.....:mad:
Like WD CHN lost to unknown pair Vita/Lyliana too:D:D

CHN WD only lost once to V/L, not twice in a row

It's funny that now "losing because opponent played better" becomes an "excuse"... I still remember how ppl are accused of "making excuses" when they "focusing on TH's own problem". Could you please give an example of a "reason of losing" that is definitely not an excuse? :confused:

I don't know how to make this any simpler. A player should try to analyze the reasons for losing by improving overall skills/weakness with help from coaches. Stated other sudden surge of other opponent isn't going to help, if you don't improve, others will, that's always true in ANY field. I am not saying there is no reason for losing, but not looking for EXCUSES to blame for the lost is what i meant. Instead, keep improving. If all have been done and it doesn't work, it is probably time to retire!!

I was talking about LD "shutdown", it's not merely "not concentrating" on one or two points. When LD "shutdown", he stops attacking and allows his opponent to win quite a few points in a row. Watch for example 05WC SF. When PG was at the edge of losing and fighted back, LD was frustrated and basically "allowed" PG to take the 2nd game.

I agree this happened to LD, and also many other players. Are you saying TH never lead a game and watch it faded away before (and eventually lost the game)? I would say he fumbled more often than LD and LCW at critical moment or at rubble set.

To me, 15% is "real chance", 5% is not. "Real chance" means "not negligible". Now I believe TH has a chance about 15%.

Everyone has his/her own opinion on the percentage i am not going to argue with this. Not mean to disagree with you. However, I would rate a "real chance" for someone like LCW, LD, CJ.

I just said I think TH is mentally stronger than LD or LCW. Since badminton is not about mental strength only, I don't think my words can be interpreted as "favor TH in winning the OG as compared to LCW or LD". So indeed you misunderstood.

Sorry i don't think at the present there is any significant "mental" advantage of TH over players like LCW and LD. I would rate TH as the one that is most skillful, but not mental (Sorry to say this to your hero!), so indeed i didn't misunderstood.:p

What I said is simply this, if we do not consider mental strength, currently TH is weaker than big guys like LD or LCW, or even not-that-big guys like BCL. How you interpreted this as I would not admit TH is "fading" is something I just could not understand. :confused:

Ok i see what you meant on TH being fading away from his oldself. But skill is probably the only thing keeping TH on the game now rather than mental or physical. Again, that is just my personal opinion. At the end, one need stamina, skill, and clean sheet of health mentally and physically to prevail, which unfortunately i don't see that on TH recently. So proof me wrong TH and win the OG gold medal!!

See bold and italic reply above.

Originally Posted by ye333 http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?p=834849#post834849)
It's funny that now "losing because opponent played better" becomes an "excuse"... I still remember how ppl are accused of "making excuses" when they "focusing on TH's own problem". Could you please give an example of a "reason of losing" that is definitely not an excuse? :confused:

I don't know how to make this any simpler. A player should try to analyze the reasons for losing by improving overall skills/weakness with help from coaches. Stated other sudden surge of other opponent isn't going to help, if you don't improve, others will, that's always true in ANY field. I am not saying there is no reason for losing, but not looking for EXCUSES to blame for the lost is what i meant. Instead, keep improving. If all have been done and it doesn't work, it is probably time to retire!!
.....

Yen_saw, sorry to intrude on your exchange with ye333. What ye333 stated has happened here, when a player loses, the coach or player stated "I did not play well in this aspect...." it was seen by some as excuse. The latest was LCW vs CJ in AE Semi Finals. Stating LCW (as per press statements) was slower, etc was seen as excuse. This group would see acknowledging the "opponent played better on the day" is a sporting way of accepting lost.
Even injury has been considered before as 'excuse' if the player lost (happened to LCW in Denmark Open 2007 when he lost to BCL).
So, whatever the reason, someone, including the sports authorities, would see it as excuse - > unless the player fainted on court or retired after serious injury (like WCH in TC 2006) then perhaps it's acceptable.

[/i]

Yen_saw, sorry to intrude on your exchange with ye333. What ye333 stated has happened here, when a player loses, the coach or player stated "I did not play well in this aspect...." it was seen by some as excuse. The latest was LCW vs CJ in AE Semi Finals. Stating LCW (as per press statements) was slower, etc was seen as excuse. This group would see acknowledging the "opponent played better on the day" is a sporting way of accepting lost.
Even injury has been considered before as 'excuse' if the player lost (happened to LCW in Denmark Open 2007 when he lost to BCL).
So, whatever the reason, someone, including the sports authorities, would see it as excuse - > unless the player fainted on court or retired after serious injury (like WCH in TC 2006) then perhaps it's acceptable.

Ahh i see... ok thanks for the explaination eaglehelang! now i look like a fool:o If that's what i misunderstood i apologize ye333!;)

Yen_saw, sorry to intrude on your exchange with ye333. What ye333 stated has happened here, when a player loses, the coach or player stated "I did not play well in this aspect...." it was seen by some as excuse. The latest was LCW vs CJ in AE Semi Finals. Stating LCW (as per press statements) was slower, etc was seen as excuse. This group would see acknowledging the "opponent played better on the day" is a sporting way of accepting lost.

Even injury has been considered before as 'excuse' if the player lost (happened to LCW in Denmark Open 2007 when he lost to BCL).

So, whatever the reason, someone, including the sports authorities, would see it as excuse - > unless the player fainted on court or retired after serious injury (like WCH in TC 2006) then perhaps it's acceptable.



.
Actually, the best statement from a loser of a match is to say "My opponent (or opponents) played better than me (or us) in that match" and to tell interviewers the strength of his/her opponent(s).

However, some losing player will go into details, to analyse the match with the interviewers, the how/why he/she wasn't playing well.

And bang... those details will be interpreted as excuses. :o:o:o
.

It seems to me you and I are really thinking along parallel tracks which never meet... So I will give up explaining.

Btw, there is a high probability that CJ cannot play in OG, especially after his loss today in India open. And IMHO BCL is stronger than CJ.

To me, the chances of taking the gold are:

LD 35%, LCW 20%, TH 15%, BCL 10%, LHI 10%, others 10%.

See bold and italic reply above.

It seems to me you and I are really thinking along parallel tracks which never meet... So I will give up explaining.

Btw, there is a high probability that CJ cannot play in OG, especially after his loss today in India open. And IMHO BCL is stronger than CJ.

To me, the chances of taking the gold are:

LD 35%, LCW 20%, TH 15%, BCL 10%, LHI 10%, others 10%.

Yeah no hard feeling ye333, it was a great chat and we are cool, right?

Yeah CJ lost that was a shocker!! i was giving him the credit since he usually perform well in China and the OG is due to take place there. However, i still think CJ has room for improvement, as compare to BCL who has seem to stall at his game.

Sure. No hard feeling.

Yeah no hard feeling ye333, it was a great chat and we are cool, right?

Yeah CJ lost that was a shocker!! i was giving him the credit since he usually perform well in China and the OG is due to take place there. However, i still think CJ has room for improvement, as compare to BCL who has seem to stall at his game.

If Chen Jin's result is correct, then his ranking pt will stay at 60280. Kenneth Jonassen is a mere 1778 pts behind at 58502. If Kenneth does win the European Championships, he will have 60462.

The only possible way for Chen Jin to qualify for the Olympics is to at least reach the Final the Badminton Asia Championships, while hoping that Kenneth does not progress past the Semi-Final.

If Chen Jin's result is correct, then his ranking pt will stay at 60280. Kenneth Jonassen is a mere 1778 pts behind at 58502. If Kenneth does win the European Championships, he will have 60462.

The only possible way for Chen Jin to qualify for the Olympics is to at least reach the Final the Badminton Asia Championships, while hoping that Kenneth does not progress past the Semi-Final.
But Kenneth also has Mix team championship...are the points will be counted as team points too?

But Kenneth also has Mix team championship...are the points will be counted as team points too?

U are right...that pt (if higher than the current mix team), will be taken into consideration, but its unlikely since Kenneth's current team pts is 6062. He will only get 5850+bonus pts for the mixed team.

If Chen Jin's result is correct, then his ranking pt will stay at 60280. Kenneth Jonassen is a mere 1778 pts behind at 58502. If Kenneth does win the European Championships, he will have 60462.

The only possible way for Chen Jin to qualify for the Olympics is to at least reach the Final the Badminton Asia Championships, while hoping that Kenneth does not progress past the Semi-Final.

So CJ's chance to bag Olympic ticket is danger now. Probably CHN will bring only 2 MS for the first time into Olympic Games, LD and BCL.

If Chen Jin's result is correct, then his ranking pt will stay at 60280. Kenneth Jonassen is a mere 1778 pts behind at 58502. If Kenneth does win the European Championships, he will have 60462.

The only possible way for Chen Jin to qualify for the Olympics is to at least reach the Final the Badminton Asia Championships, while hoping that Kenneth does not progress past the Semi-Final.



.
Our last few posts prompted me to have a look at the BWF World Ranking points, as located here (http://www.internationalbadminton.org/ranking_ms.asp?id=1)

As at 27-March-2008, Kenneth Jonassen has 58502 pts (ranking 5th) and Taufik Hidayat has 58488 pts (ranking 6th). They are almost equal with only 14 points separating them. :cool::cool::cool:
.


So CJ's chance to bag Olympic ticket is danger now. Probably CHN will bring only 2 MS for the first time into Olympic Games, LD and BCL.



.
Question: Why wasn't CJ picked by LYB to play for CHN's team events more often? :confused:
.

.
Actually, the best statement from a loser of a match is to say "My opponent (or opponents) played better than me (or us) in that match" and to tell interviewers the strength of his/her opponent(s).

However, some losing player will go into details, to analyse the match with the interviewers, the how/why he/she wasn't playing well.

And bang... those details will be interpreted as excuses. :o:o:o
.

He he, my friend, just saying "My opponent(s) played better than me(us)" is a no-no in Msia, esp if the opponent is lower ranked. It would be seen as the player is complacent, not keen in improving oneself. And the coaches & players would have to give a reason, like "We played the wrong strategy, we will work on improving this."

So, say opponent better also cannot, give reason also somebody will say sthing, as I'm sure you have seen many times.


And yes, CHen Jin is in danger. ABC will be very, very interesting.

.
Our last few posts prompted me to have a look at the BWF World Ranking points, as located here (http://www.internationalbadminton.org/ranking_ms.asp?id=1)

As at 27-March-2008, Kenneth Jonassen has 58502 pts (ranking 5th) and Taufik Hidayat has 58488 pts (ranking 6th). They are almost equal with only 14 points separating them. :cool::cool::cool:
.

.
Question: Why wasn't CJ picked by LYB to play for CHN's team events more often? :confused:
.
What if CJ crashes out in R1 again and TH wins the ABC?Will TH overtake CJ?

It seems to me you and I are really thinking along parallel tracks which never meet... So I will give up explaining.

Btw, there is a high probability that CJ cannot play in OG, especially after his loss today in India open. And IMHO BCL is stronger than CJ.

To me, the chances of taking the gold are:

LD 35%, LCW 20%, TH 15%, BCL 10%, LHI 10%, others 10%.
when was the last time TH had a decent game/match? have you seen him played and lost in AE2008? I'll say 10% less than the others, i.e. ZERO.

when was the last time TH had a decent game/match? have you seen him played and lost in AE2008? I'll say 10% less than the others, i.e. ZERO.

I wouldn't rate TH as 0% at all, he does raise up to occasion on big tournament, but to rank him even higher than BCL playing in China is overestimated and too optimistic.

I wouldn't rate TH as 0% at all, he does raise up to occasion on big tournament, but to rank him even higher than BCL playing in China is overestimated and too optimistic.
ok, i'll see you half way, 5%?

ok, i'll see you half way, 5%?
having said that as much as i love tgo but i dont believe LD has a better chance of olympic gold than the others. talking about pressure! playing at home with probably the last chance for olympic gold (well, he's not getting any younger and his playing style doesn't aged well, unfortunately)!

ok, i'll see you half way, 5%?

Deal!! ;)

The chances will become clearer once we know how he performs in those tournaments prior to OG, i.e. Sing/Thai/Indonesia Open.

I would rate TH's chance at 1% , meaning because of upsets, BCL, LCW and LD crash out before he could play them and that the Aussie fitness trainer INA just hired can work some wonders in him within 4 months.So TH still has a chance, regardless how small.Frankly ,with the NSS, it's hard to tell.The one with decent skills and steely nerves may win and that may be Nguyen Tien Minh(if he keeps on improving with each tournament.)

Yes i agree, there is always a "dark horse" lurking in a field of MS in OG.

Now everyone is relying on TH's stamina problem. Guess what will happen to these mentally-not-that-strong players (e.g., BCL, LCW) in OG when they find out that TH does not need to take a break after every long rally anymore. ;)

Enough said about TH. Let's wait and see. :cool:

[quote=AlanY;836941]when was the last time TH had a decent game/match? have you seen him played and lost in AE2008? I'll say 10% less than the others, i.e. ZERO.[/quot

I would not say NTM has "steely nerves". He did well so far simply because he is the clear underdog, thus no pressure. The tests for his nerves hasn't come yet. :cool:

I would rate TH's chance at 1% , meaning because of upsets, BCL, LCW and LD crash out before he could play them and that the Aussie fitness trainer INA just hired can work some wonders in him within 4 months.So TH still has a chance, regardless how small.Frankly ,with the NSS, it's hard to tell.The one with decent skills and steely nerves may win and that may be Nguyen Tien Minh(if he keeps on improving with each tournament.)

Please notice that OG04 is the only big tournament where LD crumble under pressure.

Talking about pressure, LD must have much pressure in WC05. He needed to prove himself after OG04. But he did quite well. He also must have substantial pressure in WC06 and 07, again he did quite well. :cool:

I believe LD will not underperform in OG08.

having said that as much as i love tgo but i dont believe LD has a better chance of olympic gold than the others. talking about pressure! playing at home with probably the last chance for olympic gold (well, he's not getting any younger and his playing style doesn't aged well, unfortunately)!

What if CJ crashes out in R1 again and TH wins the ABC?Will TH overtake CJ?
I do not think TH will be going to ABC as far as I know...unless PBSI has changed their mind....

PBSI just hired an Australian to upgrade all INA players' stamina for coming Olympic....TH needs to be serious to get his stamina...otherwise it is tough...
:eek:..PBSI had to hire an Aussie to help them improve the INA players' stamina for the upcoming Olympic Games?!?!..:confused: :p..What happened to the good ol' Indonesian traditional training method of running up & down the hill and then hitting the beach for some footwork training (on sand). And if needed, maybe do some "corporal training" with sticks and belts..?!?!..:confused: :rolleyes:;)

.
If we were to look at the Gold medals with interest, only 4 nations have ever won Gold medals, namely; China(8), Indonesia(5), South Korea(5) and Denmark(1). And for the Gold medals ever won, the events are as follows;
1 MS + 0 MD + 2 WS + 3 WD + 2 XD = 8 for China
2 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 5 for Indonesia
0 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 1 WD + 1 XD = 5 for South Korea
1 MS + 0 MD + 0 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 1 for Denmark

Question: Who will win the Badminton Gold medals@Beijing Olympics 2008 ?

Could it be as follows ?
MS to China (LIN Dan)
MD to Malaysia (KOO Kien Keat / TAN Boon Heong)
WS to China (ZHU Lin)
WD to China (GAO Ling / HUANG Sui)
XD to Indonesia (NATSIR Lilyana / WIDIANTO Nova)

What do you think ? :):):)
.



WS -- CHN still has high percentage to pick gold but it's not a daydream for other contenders to deny China goal.
MD -- really weird, only two countries who had brought MD Olympic Gold (INA and KOR)
WD -- CHN is still dominant with their three pairs
XD -- INA or CHN (INA's biggest chance to continue Olympic Gold tradition)



.
Well, from the results of ABC 2008, it appears that NATSIR Lilyana/WIDIANTO Nova will have the biggest chance to continue INA's Olympic Gold tradition*. :):):)

And my prediction for ZHU Lin in the WS has been binned. :crying::crying::crying:
.

.

And my prediction for ZHU Lin in the WS has been binned. :crying::crying::crying:
.

Haha!
Wang Chen is my hero for the 4th place qualification spot :p

BTW, I think some lead WS players will be changed after OG2008, as China team did after 2004.
Namely Lu Lan and Zhu Lin will be replaced by Wang Lin and Yanjiao :confused:

Please notice that OG04 is the only big tournament where LD crumble under pressure.

Talking about pressure, LD must have much pressure in WC05. He needed to prove himself after OG04. But he did quite well. He also must have substantial pressure in WC06 and 07, again he did quite well. :cool:

I believe LD will not underperform in OG08.

Maybe you forgot AG 2006, Individual Events. Taufik won it, not LD.

Maybe you forgot AG 2006, Individual Events. Taufik won it, not LD.

LD is not superman, and he won't win every single title. TH is not nobody, and he has his flashes here and there, with higher rank or not. However, judge from the consistency during the past 4 yrs, LD is on the top and 2nd to nobody. Aside of his temper and popularity issue among many fans, LD is more mentally ready now compare to 4 yrs ago. :rolleyes:

Maybe you forgot AG 2006, Individual Events. Taufik won it, not LD.



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eaglehelang is correct...Taufik won the AG 2006 MS GOLD, not LD. :):):)
.

LD is not superman, and he won't win every single title. TH is not nobody, and he has his flashes here and there, with higher rank or not. However, judge from the consistency during the past 4 yrs, LD is on the top and 2nd to nobody. Aside of his temper and popularity issue among many fans, LD is more mentally ready now compare to 4 yrs ago. :rolleyes:

I was refering to the the statement ..."that OG04 is the only big tournament where LD crumble under pressure."
I was just pointing out to yee333 that in OG 2004 wasnt the only big event LD was under pressure & lost, there was also AG 2006, another 4 years once tourney. In 2006, it was reported the pressure got to LD or sthing along those lines.
And Taufik also won MS gold during AG 2002.
Taufik won WC in 2005, LD won it in 2006 and 2007.
Maybe OG 2008 is LD's turn.

.
Well, from the results of ABC 2008, it appears that NATSIR Lilyana/WIDIANTO Nova will have the biggest chance to continue INA's Olympic Gold tradition*. :):):)

And the most potential pair able to ruin this beautiful dream is no other than Zheng Bo/Gao Ling, rite?

i have an inkling that the Chinese women will dominate their events. the mens events will be rather hard to predict but of course, there a few hot favourites.

In no particular order, i think could be any of:

MS: LD, BCL, LCW, TH
MD: KKK-TBH, CY-FHF, MK-HS, LYD-JJS
WS: ZN, XXF (or someone else, but probably a CHN shuttler)
WD: Any CHN shuttlers
XD: Any CHN shuttlers or NW-LN

but with China having the home ground advantage, it would be difficult for opponents to play against them. they have at least one contender in every discipline. it is not healthy for the sport but unfortunately, non-Asian countries are not doing enough to develop interest in the sport.

Who will be the #1 seeds going into Olympics?
Will China have all the #1 seeds?

MS--Lin Dan
WS--Xie Xingfang
MD--Fu/Cai
WD--Wei/Zhang
XD--Zheng/Gao

???????

Who will be the #1 seeds going into Olympics?
Will China have all the #1 seeds?

MS--Lin Dan
WS--Xie Xingfang
MD--Fu/Cai
WD--Wei/Zhang
XD--Zheng/Gao

???????
md surely not the china pair..:)

md surely not the china pair..:)

Well, personally I think MD is the most unpredicatable ones. CHN is not known for MD, but I surely won't count them out as well. ;)

I predict;

MD - LD
WS - Maybe XXF?
MD - JJS & LYD
WD - YW/ZJW
XD - Maybe NW/LN

Well, personally I think MD is the most unpredicatable ones. CHN is not known for MD, but I surely won't count them out as well. ;)

CY-FHF ? They are playing on home soil after all.

.
And my prediction for ZHU Lin in the WS has been binned. :crying::crying::crying:
.
.
So... now I am going to predict Zhang Ning to win the WS GOLD. :):):)
.

..(correct me if i'm wrong) only a handful of 1st seeds in the past Olympic Games had won Gold medals. Seeded 1st will be just that, seeded 1st, with no guarantee of a Gold medal. badMania, mind giving us a quick rundown history of seedings from past Olympics's badminton winners??..:);)
Now considering this will be the 2nd Olympics held in somewhat of a badminton country (Korea held it before in 88, and maybe Tokyo in 1940 & 1964) but the first badminton country since the inception of badminton, as an Olympic sport in 1992, will this trend continue or will we see a change all the 1st seeds claim that Olympic glory, this yr?..:confused: ;)

being seeded first makes the whole nation expect more from the shuttler.. results, pressure.. den? din manage to get it! :D

my preference, & not based on performance
MS--1. LCW; 2. LD
MD--2. KKK-TBH; 2. CY-FHF; 3. MK-HS
WS--Tine Rasmussen
WD--Korean pair
XD--INA pair

My thoughts:
MS: LD; BCL; LCW
MD: JJS/LYD; CY/FHF
WS: XXF; Tine R.; ZN
WD: YW/ZJW
XD: GL/ZB; INA pair

Ok My thoughts

MS: Chen Jin
WS: Zhu Lin
MD: Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan
WD: Lee Hyo Jung-Lee Kyun Won
XD: Nova Widianto-Lilyana Natsir

i believe 1 underdog will win 1 categories in this OG08//..
at least 1 category will be conquered by the underdogs:D:D

Md is the most unpredictable.Worried it might go for the koreans.
they seems better and better day by day.

Md is the most unpredictable. Worried it might go for the koreans.
they seems better and better day by day.



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Don't worry koo_fan. :D:D:D.

For the MD, I will be supporting KOO Kien Keat/TAN Boon Heong with you.
.

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Don't worry koo_fan. :D:D:D.

For the MD, I will be supporting KOO Kien Keat/TAN Boon Heong with you.
.
dont forget me 2!!!:)

My thoughts:
MS: Taufik Hidayat
WS: Tine Rasmussen
MD: Markis Kido-Hendra Setyawan
WD: China pair
XD: Nova Widianto-Lilyana Natsir

Let me reveal all the answers in advance:

MS: PSH or LHI
WS: JJY
MD: JJS-LYD
WD: LKW-LHJ
XD: LYD-LHJ

In coming August, you're gonna see it: just 100%! :D

the koreans wont sweep all the medals. possbily one or two at the most.

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Don't worry koo_fan. :D:D:D.

For the MD, I will be supporting KOO Kien Keat/TAN Boon Heong with you.
.
U know what,that was the cutest and the best post u have ever made.

the koreans wont sweep all the medals. possbily one or two at the most.
Realistically,Koreans are at their best.Their best chance to grab the gold medals.
It wont suprised me if their MD won.

As for other catogeries,i will seriously say i wont be able to read the analysis.
Koreans have a chance to keep suprising us.And im a worrier now

Let me reveal all the answers in advance:

MS: PSH or LHI
WS: JJY :):):):):)
MD: JJS-LYD
WD: LKW-LHJ
XD: LYD-LHJ

In coming August, you're gonna see it: just 100%! :D

You are indeed a wise man :D:D

Reuters, Thursday May 1 2008
By Dave Thompson

LONDON, May 1 (Reuters)

China, winner of four of the five Olympic badminton golds in Sydney and three in Athens, could emulate those feats on home ground in Beijing after publication on Thursday of the latest world rankings.

These are the ratings that have decided which players will be invited to the Olympic tournament in August.

Chinese names abound, headed in the men's singles by world champion Lin Dan.

Lin is one of three Chinese in the top four and victory in his home country would help erase bitter memories of Athens in 2004 when he lost in the first round to outsider Ronald Susilo from Singapore.

He will be joined in Beijing by compatriots Bao Chunlai (world ranked three) and Chen Jin (four), the latter buoyed by his surprise All England victory in Birmingham in March when he eased past an injured Lin.

Taufik Hidayat (seven) won the gold medal in 2004 but has been in patchy form since and Indonesia may be looking more to sixth-ranked Sony Dwi Kuncoro, world championship runner-up in 2007 and the bronze medallist in Athens.

Malaysian hopes rest on the talented Lee Chong Wei (two) with Europe reliant on Danes Kenneth Jonassen (five) and Peter Gade (eight), a semi-finalist in Sydney in 2000.

Lin is one of three Chinese in the top four and victory in his home country would help erase bitter memories of Athens in 2004 when he lost in the first round to outsider Ronald Susilo from Singapore.



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Loh.... Thank you for the article. :):):)

Btw, is Ronald Susilo from Singapore ready for the Beijing Olympics 2008 ?
.

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Loh.... Thank you for the article. :):):)

Btw, is Ronald Susilo from Singapore ready for the Beijing Olympics 2008 ?
.

No worry, he will be 100% ready (if he is selected) for OG08 coz he has broke off with his fiancee :eek::D

.
Loh.... Thank you for the article. :):):)

Btw, is Ronald Susilo from Singapore ready for the Beijing Olympics 2008 ?
.

Singapore is now in a dilemma. :confused: Who to choose for the Olympics - Ronald Susilo or Kendrick Lee.

Currently, Ronald's ranking is higher than Kendrick's, thanks to the former's gradual pick up in form in recent tournaments. Ronald did not play in the last SEA Games and in his place Kendrick played 1st singles and he did well to enter the individual MS finals, scalping some big names along the way but losing out timidly to Taufik Hidayat, the eventual winner. Had he continued to show such a brilliant performance as he did during the SEA Games, he would have been an obvious choice for the Olympics.

But Kendrick's form became erratic thereafter and I think he lost in the first round of most, if not all, of the international tournaments thereafter. His world ranking must have slipped (around 24) whereas Ronald's must have improved (around 17) as he performed much better, but Ronald did not manage to get within the top 16 to enable Singapore to send two MS representatives as both had qualified.

Basing on current form, I would say Ronald must be the better choice and at age 27, it must be Ronald's last chance to beat Lin Dan again and perhaps win a medal for Singapore at the most prestigious of all games - the Olympics. I think Lin must be quite hesitant to take on Ronald again at Round One to avoid another knock-out blow. The recent last outing they had was a 3-gamer.

Maybe Kendrick, being younger, will have a chance at the next Olympics in London 2012 if he still has the passion and commitment to improve.

Oh yes, Ronald did say during his last tournament that he was about 90% fit and come August, he must be well prepared for the hard battles in court (not over financial matters).

.
Loh.... Thank you for the article. :):):)

Btw, is Ronald Susilo from Singapore ready for the Beijing Olympics 2008 ?
.
Despite of his personal problems with g/f?
I think thats a factor.

Singapore is now in a dilemma. :confused: Who to choose for the Olympics - Ronald Susilo or Kendrick Lee.

Currently, Ronald's ranking is higher than Kendrick's...

Maybe Kendrick, being younger, will have a chance at the next Olympics in London 2012 if he still has the passion and commitment to improve.

Oh yes, Ronald did say during his last tournament that he was about 90% fit and come August, he must be well prepared for the hard battles in court (not over financial matters).



.
Perhaps, Ronald should attend Beijing 2008 and Kendrick for London 2012. :):):)
.

Do not belittle kendrick la.
He got the move.He should be the first choice for Beijing.

Based on current form, unpredictability and opponent fear factor, I think Ronald gets the nod. Imagine if LD draws RS in Round 1 what would go through his mind. ;) I honestly think not many would like to face RS in the early rounds. He, much more so than Kendrick stands a better chance.

..since this sounds like an uneasy decision to make and some like RS to go while others like KL to go, why don't they just flip a coin to decide the outcome??..Call it heads or tails?? If it's tails for RS, then RS it is..If it's heads for KL, the KL it is..:cool:

..since this sounds like an uneasy decision to make and some like RS to go while others like KL to go, why don't they just flip a coin to decide the outcome??..Call it heads or tails?? If it's tails for RS, then RS it is..If it's heads for KL, the KL it is..:cool:
Question is,will singapore agree to do that?

It might involve L.H.Long as well.U know singapore.So strict.

Question is,will singapore agree to do that?

It might involve L.H.Long as well.U know singapore.So strict.

Its all a matter of perception... about being strict, etc, etc...:D Yes our laws are strict and enforcement is thorough, but at the same time they are transparent. The aim is to be fair to everyone as far as possible.

But it is also true that there is no perfect system. That's why the best is yet to be. :)

If you have a decent living, you can find work, you can travel about freely at home and abroad, have adequate protection from the law, treated equally in the eyes of the law...that is not too bad despite what others may say...;)

In the choice of the MS for the Beijing Olympics, I think they will be fair and will choose the player whom they consider the one most likely to do well and bring pride to Singapore... and this must be based on current performance for the BO is just about 3 months away. :)

The system of singapore is overally good.

Singapore's lineup - Can they produce something?Waiting good news from a neighbour.See u in semis.

Realistically,Koreans are at their best.Their best chance to grab the gold medals.
It wont suprised me if their MD won.

As for other catogeries,i will seriously say i wont be able to read the analysis.
Koreans have a chance to keep suprising us.And im a worrier now

The problem is, there's still about 3.5 months away from Olympics. Peak too early might not be a good sign. Look at LD in 2004, no one can stop him for months, but he lost in the 1st round.

Carry the good momentum is good, but peak at the right time is the best. ;)

The problem is, there's still about 3.5 months away from Olympics. Peak too early might not be a good sign. Look at LD in 2004, no one can stop him for months, but he lost in the 1st round.

Carry the good momentum is good, but peak at the right time is the best. ;)
That is how badminton in olympic is interesting.
Taufik Hidayat is the latest example.

What i meant on kores's thingy is they keep moving up.
in 3.5 months.Anything can happen.But korea isnt peak yet.

Their md hasnt won.But they are on the track to win.

What i meant on korea's thingy is they keep moving up.

But they are on the track to win.



.
:D:D:D Don't let the Korean MD worry you, koo_fan......
.


For the MD, I will be supporting KOO Kien Keat/TAN Boon Heong with you. :):):)

.
:D:D:D Don't let the Korean MD worry you, koo_fan......
.

It's the fact. The Korean pairs is doing very good recently.

It's the fact. The Korean pairs is doing very good recently.

Hey, you guys seem to be shivering or something...

Just stop walking in the illusion but see the reality... :D

Let me reveal all the answers in advance:

MS: PSH or LHI
WS: JJY
MD: JJS-LYD
WD: LKW-LHJ
XD: LYD-LHJ

In coming August, you're gonna see it: just 100%! :D



.
narnia... You are the biggest fan for KOREA !!! :D:D:D
.

.
narnia... You are the biggest fan for KOREA !!! :D:D:D
.
What DKF mean?
Anything related to Korea?

.
In another 5 days, we will arrive at the Year 2008, the Year of the Beijing Olympics 2008.

For Badminton at the Olympics, only 7 nations have ever won any medals, namely; China(22), Indonesia(15), South Korea(14), Denmark(4), Malaysia(3), Great Britain(2) and The Netherlands(1).

If we were to look at the Gold medals with interest, only 4 nations have ever won Gold medals, namely; China(8), Indonesia(5), South Korea(5) and Denmark(1). And for the Gold medals ever won, the events are as follows;
1 MS + 0 MD + 2 WS + 3 WD + 2 XD = 8 for China
2 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 5 for Indonesia
0 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 1 WD + 1 XD = 5 for South Korea
1 MS + 0 MD + 0 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 1 for Denmark

Question: Who will win the Badminton Gold medals@Beijing Olympics 2008 ?

Could it be as follows ?
MS to China (LIN Dan)
MD to Malaysia (KOO Kien Keat / TAN Boon Heong)
WS to China (ZHU Lin)
WD to China (GAO Ling / HUANG Sui)
XD to Indonesia (NATSIR Lilyana / WIDIANTO Nova)

What do you think ? :):):)
.


Seriously doubt......

Seriously doubt......



.
After the just finished TC/UC, China is now very confident of winning more GOLDS @Beijing 2008.

:):):)
.

.
After the just finished TC/UC, China is now very confident of winning more GOLDS @Beijing 2008.

:):):)
.

Not sure how you make such conclusion :confused: The only Chinese player that played and won all matches was Bao Chunlai. Lin Dan lost tamely to Chong Wei and was dragged rubber by Park. Chen Jin didn't played in the final and seems to get injure quite easily. Fu/Cai lost to Lee/Jung and Xie/Guo lost to Tazari/Zakry and China is more confident now to win more gold in Olympic based on the above scenario?
I don't think TC is a good platform to gage the Olympic winners as top notch players hardly had chance to meet one another, take Lee Chong Wei for example, he only met and played one solid matches against top gun Lin Dan. Bao and Chen Jin didn't really play against any Olympic title contender since they play 2nd and 3rd.
I would say is inconclusive, the coming platforms Singapore and Indonesia Opens will be a better one to peek at the Olympic gold medal contenders.

I don't think TC is a good platform to gage the Olympic winners as top notch players hardly had chance to meet one another, take Lee Chong Wei for example, he only met and played one solid matches against top gun Lin Dan. Bao and Chen Jin didn't really play against any Olympic title contender since they play 2nd and 3rd.
I would say is inconclusive, the coming platforms Singapore and Indonesia Opens will be a better one to peek at the Olympic gold medal contenders.



.
Han... You could be correct. :):):)

However, a little bird told me that China is happy after the TC/UC 2008, and that they might not even want to participate in the Singapore and the Indonesia Opens this year. :(

But that little bird could be wrong. :D
.

.
Han... You could be correct. :):):)

However, a little bird told me that China is happy after the TC/UC 2008, and that they might not even want to participate in the Singapore and the Indonesia Opens this year. :(

But that little bird could be wrong. :D
.

I don't think anyone who aims for OG gold will play his/her best in SO or IO.

I don't think anyone who aims for OG gold will play his/her best in SO or IO.

i wonder will all the country that gonna participate in og will send their top players to SO or IO.Maybe they want 2 keep their players at home until olympic :rolleyes:

I would not risk LCW in the IO as it is too close for comfort even though he is the defending champion. Maybe SO is ok to finetune further.

I don't think anyone who aims for OG gold will play his/her best in SO or IO.

Why?
These players are professionals. Why would they want to participate if they don't want to play their best? But their best may not be enough to win the titile for others are also aiming to win. :confused:

I would not risk LCW in the IO as it is too close for comfort even though he is the defending champion. Maybe SO is ok to finetune further.
seems like your are lcw`s coach, MISBUN SIDEK :):D

Why?
These players are professionals. Why would they want to participate if they don't want to play their best? But their best may not be enough to win the titile for others are also aiming to win. :confused:

Mainly to avoid injury as there is always risk involves when any match is push to the distance. Chen Jin got injure during Thomas Cup so I am sure China like to take certain precaution. China will send Chen Yu to Singapore Open.
I think most of the top players will skip the Indonesia Open.

I don't think anyone who aims for OG gold will play his/her best in SO or IO.
good place for wch, HH, SDK, TG/CW wang chen, zhou mi, chen hong, etc to pick up some prizes.

I suppose with the big elephant of the Olympic Games looming up, the only thing that makes sense for team-based strategy is to participate in warm-up tourneys leading up to the Olympic Games.

Only so much can be gleaned from internal training, and taking it easy in the Singapore Open and Indonesian Open would only make sense to try different strategies on unfamiliar opponents.

This close to the Olympics as well, players and coaches would be aware of how much rest time is required for physical and mental peak alertness. Only injury is very risky.

-dave

erm looks like china and south korean will skip SO..

However, a little bird told me that China is happy after the TC/UC 2008, and that they might not even want to participate in the Singapore and the Indonesia Opens this year. :(

But that little bird could be wrong. :D



.
So that little bird was correct. :D:D:D

News received...

====== * ====== start news ====== * ======

The Star
Thursday May 22, 2008
By LIM TEIK HUAT

Badminton: Malaysians should come out tops in Singapore Open 2008

PETALING JAYA: The absence of the Chinese and South Korean big guns will present Lee Chong Wei and the doubles pair of Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong the better chance to come out triumphant from the Singapore Open scheduled for June 10-15.

World number one Lin Dan will be giving the fifth leg of the Super Series a skip together with Bao Chunlai and Chen Jin, who are now ranked third and fourth in the world respectively. Also sitting out are the top two Koreans, Park Sung-hwan and Lee Hyun-il.

http://thestar.com.my/archives/2008/5/22/sports/s_70chen.jpg
Lone ranger: Chen Yu is the only Chinese representative in the men’s singles.

The only Chinese representative in the singles is Chen Yu, who will not feature in the Beijing Olympics in August.

World number two Chong Wei will be gunning for his second Super Series title this year after lifting the Malaysian Open in January and he is the top seed ahead of Danish veteran Kenneth Jonassen.

In the Singapore Open last year, Chong Wei was beaten by fellow Malaysian Mohd Hafiz Hashim in the first round.

Five other Malaysians will join Chong Wei and Hafiz to play in the main draw. They are Wong Choong Hann, Roslin Hashim, Lee Tsuen Seng, Sairol Amar Ayob and Yeoh Kay Bin.

Indonesia have Sony Dwi Kuncoro, Taufik Hidayat and Simon Santoso in the fray while Thailand’s Boonsak Ponsana will be defending the title.

Defending champions Fu Haifeng-Cai Yun of China and in-form Koreans Lee Yong-dae-Jung Jae-sung are among the top pairs missing from the men's doubles competition.

Their absence leaves world number one Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan and the Danish pair of Jonas Rasmussen-Lars Paaske as the early favourites to win the title.

The Singapore Open presents the chance for Kien Keat-Boon Heong to make amends for their first-round defeat by team-mates Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari-Mohd Zakry Latif in last year's tournament.

Kien Keat-Boon Heong, who are currently ranked fifth in the world, not only have to improve on their rankings but they also have to boost their confidence ahead of the Beijing Olympics.

A question mark remains on the participation of veterans Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah as the latter came down with a right shoulder injury in the Thomas Cup Finals in Jakarta last week.

Doubles chief coach Rexy Mainaky said that he should know by next week if Wan Wah could feature in the Open.

“Wan Wah is on a one-week leave and I have to talk to him about his latest condition. In the meantime, we have submitted their entry together with those of all the other pairs in the national team,” he said.

Tan Fook-Wan Wah were the runners-up last year and if they get to start, they will be the second seeds.

====== * ====== end news ====== * ======

Cheers... chris@ccc
:):):)
.

My tuppence:

MS - Lin Dan (older, wiser, and has the home advantage)

WS - Tine Rasmussen (white hot at the moment, this would be a cracking win if she managed it, especially if she doesn't meet XXF)

MD - Jung Jae-Sung and Lee Yong-Dae (I expect and want these two to win - they are my favourite pair to watch and they've already beaten everybody of consequence in previous tournaments)

XD - Zheng Bo and Gao Ling (two All Englands on the bounce; the only pair I can see challenging them is Nova/Lilyana)

WD - No idea - wide open field, but my money's definitely on China.

I only ever bother with gymnastics and badminton at the Olyms, being a former gymnast and a current badderist, so it's all going on tape for posterity (especially if it's on at stupid o'clock thanks to the time difference:p).

I only ever bother with gymnastics and badminton at the Olyms, being a former gymnast and a current badderist, so it's all going on tape for posterity (especially if it's on at stupid o'clock thanks to the time difference:p).
well, its unlikely to have any live tv coverage for badminton especially with no british interests after 1st round!

well, its unlikely to have any live tv coverage for badminton especially with no british interests after 1st round!
U are indeed improving by now.Westerners generally.

i think china (as usual) will dominate (again) this time. except maybe for MD and XD, either Korea or Indonesia will dominate.

Mostly in those major tournament,those unexpected players might win like WC07...maybe this kind of incident might happen in OG..maybe..
Well,I predict China will win the more gold in badminton game in OG..:)

Mostly in those major tournament, those unexpected players might win like WC07... maybe this kind of incident might happen in OG..maybe..

Well,I predict China will win the more gold in badminton game in OG..:)



.
Felicia_txh ... Even though unexpected players might win, only 4 nations have ever won Badminton Golds at the Olympics.



If we were to look at the Gold medals with interest, only 4 nations have ever won Gold medals, namely; China(8), Indonesia(5), South Korea(5) and Denmark(1). And for the Gold medals ever won, the events are as follows;
1 MS + 0 MD + 2 WS + 3 WD + 2 XD = 8 for China
2 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 5 for Indonesia
0 MS + 2 MD + 1 WS + 1 WD + 1 XD = 5 for South Korea
1 MS + 0 MD + 0 WS + 0 WD + 0 XD = 1 for Denmark



:):):)
.

China will want to win that MD medal this time, but will face a lot of competition from favourites Korea.
Indonesia will want to win that WD/XD this time, but will face a lot of competition from favourites China.
South Korea will want to win that MS medal this time, but will face a lot of competition from favourites China.
Denmark; PG and KJ will give it a last try. Same goes for their veteran MD. TR won't be deterred by China's domination as well.

my prediction :
ms : INA : Taufik Hidayat
MD : INA : KIdo/Setiawan
XD : INA : Nova/Butet or Falndy/Vita
WS : INA : Maria Kristin
WD : INA : butet/vita

my predictions in men single and double

ms: lin dan china
md: jung/lee korea

Finally, my prediction will be.....

Without a single doubt, the gold will be won by LCW with BAO taking silver and LD taking bronze.

In the doubles, gold & silver will be either JJS-LYD (Korea) or KKK-TBH (Malaysia) and bronze will go to CTF-LWW.

My prediction as follows:

MS - LCW will do his usual in big tournaments and fall apart. I predict LCW to be bundled out in the early rounds. LD to win the gold.

MD - KKK/TBH to be packed away in the early rounds. Gold will either go to Cai/Fu or JJS/LYD.

No gold for Malaysia. Maybe a bronze.

my prediction :
ms : INA : Taufik Hidayat
MD : INA : KIdo/Setiawan
XD : INA : Nova/Butet or Falndy/Vita
WS : INA : Maria Kristin
WD : INA : butet/vita

Surely you can't be serious or you've not been keeping in close touch with recent performances involving these INA players! To be realistic, if INA wins one of the above, it is considered not bad at all! ;)

Surely you can't be serious or you've not been keeping in close touch with recent performances involving these INA players! To be realistic, if INA wins one of the above, it is considered not bad at all! ;)


Surely you are not serious about him being serious.:D

my prediction :
ms : INA : Taufik Hidayat
MD : INA : KIdo/Setiawan
XD : INA : Nova/Butet or Falndy/Vita
WS : INA : Maria Kristin
WD : INA : butet/vita

Well, since there are some who believe that LCW will take that MS and KKK/TBH the MD gold respectively, I must say I am not at all surprise with your predictions. :D

Well, since there are some who believe that LCW will take that MS and KKK/TBH the MD gold respectively, I must say I am not at all surprise with your predictions. :D

wow...pemuda is so funny...i like ur joke...:p

wow...pemuda is so funny...i like ur joke...:p

And X Ball better come out with a better one! Otherwise we think he's not serious about his predictions on his MAS favourites. :rolleyes:

Surely you are not serious about him being serious.:D

:D:D:D, uncle Loh not serious, in joking mood also, look Spore Open thread.

My prediction :

MS : LCW or PSH (he was already dangerous without LM, more dangerous with Li Mao )
MD : Lee/Jung are favourities,
dark horses :
1) Denmark younger uncles, Lars/Jonas (managed to beat Lee/Jung in TC, Europe uncles still have tricks up their sleeves that confuse Asia young guns)
2) Fu/Cai, home ground advantage and....2nd China pair Xie/Guo can beat Lee/Jung in India Open, China coaches seem to have found formula to beat Korea MD.
All the above of course, is assuming they meet Lee/Jung in final

WS : Tine R, break the great wall gal.
WD : China, doesnt matter which one
XD : Nova/Liliyana

Alright, I'll put in my 2 (sometimes unrealistic) cents:
MS: Predict - Gotta be LD (CHN). Wish - LCW (MAS)
MD: Predict - LYD/JJY (KOR). Wish - JR/LP (DEN)
WS: Predict - Tine (DEN). Wish - JJY :):):) (KOR)
WD: Predict - Lee/Lee (KOR). Wish - same
XD: Predict - GL/ZB (CHN). Wish - Emms/Robertson (ENG)

According to my predictions, CHN and KOR win 2 golds each and DEN comes away with one. Tine's recent form has been a little worrying actually.

I will not be that person who laughs first then laughs last.

LCW has fuelled every bit of my imagination of what a Gold Medallist would be and he is the ultimate in badminton today.

Why do I think these players will not win :
LD has lost his desire - too much of the good stuff; although BAO has the desire, he is not as good; so if I think TH, I will be laughed at; Chen Jin, he will always have to play 2nd fiddle to LD; PG gets cramps more often now; LHI and PSH have got Li MAO's pressure and cannot win; the rest, you can write your story about them.

my prediction :
ms : INA : Taufik Hidayat
MD : INA : KIdo/Setiawan
XD : INA : Nova/Butet or Falndy/Vita
WS : INA : Maria Kristin
WD : INA : butet/vita

Only XD and MD are the biggest chance for Indonesia badminton to continue gold tradition at Beijing Games meanwhile the other three are too hard to be realized.

I will not be that person who laughs first then laughs last.

LCW has fuelled every bit of my imagination of what a Gold Medallist would be and he is the ultimate in badminton today.

Why do I think these players will not win :
LD has lost his desire - too much of the good stuff; although BAO has the desire, he is not as good; so if I think TH, I will be laughed at; Chen Jin, he will always have to play 2nd fiddle to LD; PG gets cramps more often now; LHI and PSH have got Li MAO's pressure and cannot win; the rest, you can write your story about them.

If LD should be knocked out in the early rounds and CJ remained standing, CJ then need not play second fiddle to LD and the way would be open for him to do his natural stuff. CJ would then be free from his burden (of having to implement LYB's popular strategy :)) and then LYB had to focuss on him since his favourite LD could not be counted upon to take the title on home soil! :D

LYB would give his last ounce of nervous energy to support CJ at the coach's corner to counter Li Mao's Korean prodigy, now at the opposite end of CJ. But LM would continuously frustrate LYB as the latter's every move was anticipated, nullified and overcome. LYB was at his end's wits and could only witness his last China hope torn to bits and pieces and the inevitable would happen.

He wanted to lash out at LM but pulled back his urge as he knew the whole world would be watching! The top China leaders had reminded that
they had to show the best face possible to the world and that China is a friend to all. LYB had no alternative but to behave as a model ambassador!

But where are the others? Surely we can't discount them? :rolleyes:

my updated prediction;

MS: LD or maybe LCW
MD: JJS/LYD
WS: TR or XXF
WD: JJW/YW
XD: ZB/GL maybe NW/LN

But where are the others? Surely we can't discount them? :rolleyes:

What others ? Surely, we are not talking about Ronald Susilo or Kendrick ?:D

What others ? Surely, we are not talking about Ronald Susilo or Kendrick ?:D

Aiyah, X Ball surely you know the ball is round, you'll never know. Even the shuttlecocks don't always fly one direction. :p

History has recorded that Ronald Susilo beat LD at the last Athens Olympics and so embarrassed LD and LYB. :mad: Who is to say Ronald can't repeat history? :rolleyes: Then you should thank RS for knocking out LD again to pave the way for LCW, no LYB-style match-fixing though. Thereafter who is to say that RS cannot advance further?

Anyway, are you coming down to SO this time? Satay and beer on me, provided you don't drive back home. :D

Aiyah, X Ball surely you know the ball is round, you'll never know. Even the shuttlecocks don't always fly one direction. :p

History has recorded that Ronald Susilo beat LD at the last Athens Olympics and so embarrassed LD and LYB. :mad: Who is to say Ronald can't repeat history? :rolleyes: Then you should thank RS for knocking out LD again to pave the way for LCW, no LYB-style match-fixing though. Thereafter who is to say that RS cannot advance further?

Anyway, are you coming down to SO this time? Satay and beer on me, provided you don't drive back home. :D


Satay and Beer on you ? -- finally ! LOL, let me work out my calendar.

Satay and Beer on you ? -- finally ! LOL, let me work out my calendar.

On top of satay n beer, I'll sponsor "ikan bakar" (stingray) n teh-0 :D

Satay and Beer on you ? -- finally ! LOL, let me work out my calendar.

You see X Ball, even my young jimbo is happy to host you as well. There is no further excuse from you. And you get to met our Pretty Rudy as well! :)

.
It's great know that Loh, X Ball and jimbo would be sharing Satay and Beer again. :D:D:D
.

team china are favorites but the immense pressure on them means alot of them are going to falter be it at the early stages or at the last hurdle :p

On top of satay n beer, I'll sponsor "ikan bakar" (stingray) n teh-0 :D


Top man. I need to look at my calender first - it is certainly inviting.

wah, now we are talking about who will win the beijing golds at bejing olyimpic , u guys seems to talking about satay and beer???:p
any satay for me??:p:D:D
HAHA

wah, now we are talking about who will win the beijing golds at bejing olyimpic , u guys seems to talking about satay and beer???:p
any satay for me??:p:D:D
HAHA

george...go kajang or melaka if u want...:p

Must Be No.1 Indo's Pair... BUTET/NOVA.... twice getting world champion... more than enough to prove their selves as the strongest...LUV LILYANA SO MUCH....

george...go kajang or melaka if u want...:p
too far already..
can u treat me??:p
hehe

Please avoid the chit-chat.
There's another sub-forum for that :)

But nova/lilyana has their own strenght.. Twice being world champion, i thing it has been a good experience 4 butet/nova to knowing how to handle pressure of such big event.. Zeng bo oftenly can't do that.. He' s easy goin to underpressure

But nova/lilyana has their own strenght.. Twice being world champion, i thing it has been a good experience 4 butet/nova to knowing how to handle pressure of such big event.. Zeng bo oftenly can't do that.. He' s easy goin to underpressure

WHO WILL WIN THE BADMINTON GOLD?

At the moment only GOD can tell! :cool:

if everything be said only god can tell,,,, well i think it there will be no job again for the "sports observer" --- he...9x
Still, i believe Lilyana/Nova or Vita/Flandy will get it.... Live INDONESIA.... ho9x

But nova/lilyana has their own strength......

Zheng Bo oftenly can't do that.. He's easy going to under pressure

if everything be said only god can tell,,,, well i think it there will be no job again for the "sports observer" --- he...9x
Still, i believe Lilyana/Nova or Vita/Flandy will get it.... Live INDONESIA.... ho9x
.
Dy_e4ia_TUC ... We are now only 2 months away from the Beijing 2008 Olympics and only 2 days from the Singapore 2008 Super Series. It is great that Lilyana/Nova, Vita/Flandy and Gao Ling/Zheng Bo are all participating in Singapore, where we could have another look at their current forms.

For me, I believe that Lilyana/Nova can win the Badminton MX Gold Medals@Beijing Olympics 2008.

:):):)
.

if everything be said only god can tell,,,, well i think it there will be no job again for the "sports observer" --- he...9x
Still, i believe Lilyana/Nova or Vita/Flandy will get it.... Live INDONESIA.... ho9x

The topic is "WHO WILL WIN THE BADMINTON GOLD?"

not who is the favourite or who is likely to win!

The topic is "WHO WILL WIN THE BADMINTON GOLD?"

not who is the favourite or who is likely to win!



.
:D:D:D Perhaps, our thread title should be read as "WHO COULD WIN THE BADMINTON GOLDS @ BEIJING 2008?"
.

Who will win the 2008 Men-single Olympic Gold medal ??
Will it be Lin Dan ? Chong Wei ??? or Peter Gade....

Let's vote at this website : http://www.vonlineshop.com/

I support CW, hahaha...:)

Here's a well-written piece on China's prospects at Beijing OG 2008.
The article can be read in its original online layout here (http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080704/wl_asia_afp/oly2008badmintonchn) :)

China's badminton shuttlers "vulnerable" at Olympics

by Trudy Harris
Thu Jul 3, 9:37 PM ET

HONG KONG (AFP) - On paper, China's mighty shuttlers look set to clinch a bagful of gold medals in Beijing.

Not only do they boast the world's best players, but the Red Army have been boosted by recent thumpings of rivals South Korea and Indonesia at the Thomas and Uber Cups, one of the last major tournaments before the Games.
Then there's the home advantage: Thousands of adoring fans are set to pack the Beijing University Gymnasium in August to cheer on the champions - who dominate the sport's top tournaments - as they attempt the historic feat of winning all five golds on offer.

But closer scrutiny shows chinks have started to appear in all-conquering China's armour, just weeks before the Games get underway.

China's golden couple and world number ones, Lin Dan and Xie Xingfang, have suffered shock defeats, while China's men's and mixed doubles are set to be shaken by Indonesia whose pairs, thanks to recent superb form, have seized the top seedings.

"What is clear is that the Chinese are not invincible and they can lose their composure when they are under pressure too, which should be good news for everyone," Netherlands coach Martijn Van Dooremalen said after his team took China's women to the brink at the Uber Cup before they recovered to win 3-2.
"They can be beaten," he said.

China head coach Li Yongbo, who drills his charges with military precision, admits rival nations are catching up, but welcomes the improvements, while stressing that China are on course for gold in Beijing.

"I agree that badminton in China has declined a bit but I am also pleased that internationally the standard of badminton has risen," he said.
"That helps to push us to improve further."

China's Lin was beaten in a Thomas Cup clash by Malaysian star Lee Chong Wei who described the win as his best yet against the back-to-back world champion.

Seeded second for Beijing, Lee stands the biggest chance of halting the Chinese charge in the men's singles, along with Danish giants Kenneth Jonassen, seeded five, and Peter Gade, ranked eight.

Indonesia's Sony Dwi Kuncoro also looms, and team mate Taufik Hidayat always poses a threat, although the temperamental shuttler has recently shown little of the form that won him Olympic gold four years ago.
China, however, not only boast the world number one, but strength in numbers.

If Lin Dan falls during the Games, the Red Army can count on formidable foot soldiers Bao Chunlai, seeded three, and number four Chen Jin, winner of this year's prestigious All England championship, to carry the flag.

China won three gold in Athens and four in Sydney and, with the Games on home soil, will be aiming for a clean-sweep this time around.

But their toughest hurdle to achieve that feat is expected to come in the men's doubles, with Indonesian duo Markis Kido and Hendra Setiawan, the world champions, taking the top seed.

China's Fu Haifeng and Cai Yun are second, with South Korea's Lee Yong-Dae and Jung Jae-Sung baying for blood in third.

Indonesia are also favourites in the mixed doubles ahead of China, but the Red Army looks certain of gold in the women's thanks to rock solid pair Yang Wei and Zhang Jiewen, the world champions and defending Olympic title holders.

In the women's singles, Xie Xingfang and Olympic gold medallist Zhang Ning will spearhead the charge for the host nation, strongly backed up by third seed Lu Lan.

But the lightning-quick Xie has also stumbled in the lead-up.

She was downed at the Uber Cup by Dutch star Yao Jie -- compounding problems for Xie, who, along with Zhang, were bundled out of the All England in the opening rounds.

That title eventually went to Denmark's sixth seed Tine Rasmussen who beat Lu Lan, sending an ominous warning about her intentions in Beijing.

Indonesia women's coach Susi Susanti -- an Olympic gold medallist in Barcelona -- said shuttlers should not be intimidated by China who were indeed vulnerable.

"I feel that the Chinese singles are not as unbeatable as they used to be when I was playing," she said. "If we consider how (Malaysia's) Wong Mew Choo won in China, Tine Rasmussen's recent success at the All England, I hope my players can use these examples to remember that the Chinese are beatable."

Who is Trudy Harris? Is she an authority on badminton or simply a sports writer who was assigned to write on it? It sounds like the latter. Her emphasis on the events CHN is unlikely to win gold are MS and MD, whereas many on BC (true experts! :)) point to WS.

The article can be read in its original online layout here (http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080704/wl_asia_afp/oly2008badmintonchn) :)

China's badminton shuttlers "vulnerable" at Olympics
by Trudy Harris
Thu Jul 3, 9:37 PM ET

HONG KONG (AFP) - On paper, China's mighty shuttlers look set to clinch a bagful of gold medals in Beijing.

But closer scrutiny shows chinks have started to appear in all-conquering China's armour, just weeks before the Games get underway.

China head coach Li Yongbo, who drills his charges with military precision, admits rival nations are catching up, but welcomes the improvements, while stressing that China are on course for gold in Beijing.

"I agree that badminton in China has declined a bit but I am also pleased that internationally the standard of badminton has risen," he said.



.
Don't be surprised if a Badminton GOLD medal is to be won by each of the Top 5 nations, namely; China, Denmark, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Korea.

:):):)
.

.
Don't be surprised if a Badminton GOLD medal is to be won by each of the Top 5 nations, namely; China, Denmark, Indonesia, Malaysia and South Korea.

:):):)
.

Yes, I will be pleased if that will happen for real.
I dont have to name the players, you know who they are :)

1. MS = MAS
2. WS = DEN
3. XD = INA
4. WD = CHN
5. MD = KOR

What do you think guys? Any comments?

Yes, I will be pleased if that will happen for real.
I don't have to name the players, you know who they are :)

1. MS = MAS
2. WS = DEN
3. XD = INA
4. WD = CHN
5. MD = KOR

What do you think guys? Any comments?



.
:D:D:D Hahaha, Seasider... Great minds think alike. :D:D:D
.

it would be good for the sport of badminton

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:D:D:D Hahaha, Seasider... Great minds think alike. :D:D:D

.


It could also be Fools Seldom Differ.:D:D:D


But I guess I could be a fool too coz I agree with the prediction somewhat - only thing is I believe MD = MAS is possible too. :D

Yes, I will be pleased if that will happen for real.
I dont have to name the players, you know who they are :)

1. MS = MAS
2. WS = DEN
3. XD = INA
4. WD = CHN
5. MD = KOR

What do you think guys? Any comments?

If it happens in OG08, it will do good for the sports. I doubt LYB will allow it to happen coz he will abuse all his power to make sure a clean sweep :rolleyes::cool: onLy Chance to Win is the MS GOLD is... errr.... :D:p

And even at this stage so close to the Olympics, we have seen lots of upsets and near upsets! Dark horses are looming! Some are still not very visible yet!

So we should not be shocked if the above predictions, seemingly very fair and equitable, should turn out not entirely correct but with some "musical chairs" being played.

Peaking at the right time, form-wise, will be the determining factor for all the hopefuls. :D:D:D

Peaking at the right time, form-wise, will be the determining factor for all the hopefuls. :D:D:D

Yes agree and I have always maintained 'form' is the thing to go by and not past history. I would not even think or suggest LCW has a chance of winning gold if he isn't in form - it would be stupid of me.

And form to me is being super fit (because at their level they are skillfull already and the only thing they have to be sure of is their fitness). Even WCH acknowledges that and is hell bent on getting his fitness up - he is doing double time now on his fitness regime.

Yes, hitting that purple patch at the right time is key. There are so many factors that could affect a player's performance on the day: nerves, crowd pressure/expectation (CHN), injury, lack of match play (KOR team), illness, accidents... and God knows what else.

BCL could eat a bad pork Bao (sorry for the bad pun ;):D), come down with food poisoning and out he goes.

If KKK comes anywhere near glass again, who knows what he might do (unless it's a crystal disco ball, then he'll simply "get on down")

What if LD draws Ronald Susilo again. Will it reduce him to a blubbering mass of protoplasm?

I know these are ridiculous and extreme examples but the Olympics are no ordinary Games. I've seen so many athletes choked by the massiveness of occasion, and it will happen again.

The Star Sports
Saturday July 5, 2008


By RAJES PAUL

KUALA LUMPUR: National badminton chief coach Yap Kim Hock is confident that his charges will return from the Beijing Olympic Games with at least a medal.

That, he said, would be a perfect gift to mark the end of his four-year tenure as Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) chief coach.

When asked what if the team were to return without any medal, Kim Hock said: “In my dictionary, there is no such word as no medal.

“I am quite confident that the team will win a medal – of any colour – this time.”

It’s too cold: Choong Tan Fook taking an ice bath with the help of Lee Wan Wah after their training session at the National Sports Institute in Bukit Jalil yesterday. — IBRAHIM MOHTAR / The Star
As for his future as chief coach, he said: “I will leave it to the BAM management to decide on my fate after the Olympics. For now, I do not want to be distracted.”

Ironically, Kim Hock was in the team who last won medals for Malaysia at the Olympics. At the 1996 Atlanta Games, Kim Hock-Cheah Soon Kit won a silver medal while Rashid Sidek took a bronze in the men’s singles.

Malaysia failed to win anything at the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Games.

This time, hopes are high that the men’s singles players – Lee Chong Wei and Wong Choong Hann – will be able to end the medal drought.

But it is Chong Wei, who won the Singapore Open last month, who is seen as a genuine medal contender.

“The race is quite open in the men’s singles event and I think Chong Wei stands a good chance of nailing a medal for us,” Kim Hock said at the training centre in Gymnasium Two in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

He also predicted a tougher time for Malaysia’s two doubles pairs – Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah and Koo Kien Keat-Tan Boon Heong – to win a medal in Beijing.

He said that China’s Cai Yun-Fu Haifeng and South Korea’s Lee Yong-dae-Jung Jae-sung were a class above the rest based on recent form.

Kim Hock also expects reigning world champions Markis Kido-Hendra Setiawan of Indonesia to be a big threat “if they can regain their form”.

“Our pairs are the dark horses. Our pairs are not the favourites but they are among those with a shot at winning a medal,” he said.

Kim Hock said that an Olympic medal would be a great accomplishment for him as chief coach.

“Over the last four years, I have experienced many ups and down. The best memories for me as chief coach was seeing Koo and Tan win the gold medals in the Asian Games (Doha in 2006) and emerging as the All-England champions (in 2007).

“But I have had tough times too – like in finding ways to improve the skills of the players and getting the ideal coaches. The most difficult part for me is to manage the people. But it has been a great learning experience.

“The Beijing Games will be the last tournament for me before my contract as chief coach ends. I am dreaming of a medal.”

Defending MS champion Taufik Hidayat will turn 27 on the second day of the badminton competition (09-17 August) at the Beijing Olympics.

It's quite a romantic idea to imagine that he might give himself a delayed birthday gift in the form of a second gold... but it also looks increasingly unlikely :rolleyes:

I tend to agree with Seasider's distribution for the golds.
It's not just an equitable list... it's a very likely scenario :)

Defending MS champion Taufik Hidayat will turn 27 on the second day of the badminton competition (09-17 August) at the Beijing Olympics.

It's quite a romantic idea to imagine that he might give himself a delayed birthday gift in the form of a second gold... but it also looks increasingly unlikely :rolleyes:

I tend to agree with Seasider's distribution for the golds.
It's not just an equitable list... it's a very likely scenario :)

There is nothing that escapes you Oldhand.:D

i dun think tan boon heong and koo kien kiat will have the chance to win the gold medal in olimpic..

i dun think tan boon heong and koo kien kiat will have the chance to win the gold medal in olimpic..

Er, why won't they have a chance?
Don't they have passports, racquets, on-court gear and an official entry?

They have as much a chance as anyone else to win the gold medal.
The question is: Can they can make good on this chance? :rolleyes:

yea..so sad when c they play but lose..satelit will have the badminton matches show to us whole day during olympic right?

i dun think tan boon heong and koo kien kiat will have the chance to win the gold medal in olimpic..

Rexy Spielberg is a great Drama Director. His latest film will be in cinema this Coming August - The Greatest Comeback starring Triple K and Ah Tan.....:D:D

Yes, I will be pleased if that will happen for real.
I dont have to name the players, you know who they are :)
1. MS = MAS
2. WS = DEN
3. XD = INA
4. WD = CHN
5. MD = KOR
What do you think guys? Any comments?

Yeah, a perfect scenario! LCW,TR, NW/LN and JJS/LYD as strong candidates based on their current performances to deny host clean-sweep mission.

Doesn't anyone think the Koreans Lee/Lee can realistically challenge for the WD gold?

Doesn't anyone think the Koreans Lee/Lee can realistically challenge for the WD gold?
Not unless Du or Yu breaks a leg :p
That's as real as it can get.

Not unless Du or Yu breaks a leg :p
That's as real as it can get.

Should we take a friendly wager?

Should we take a friendly wager?

If it is really friendly, I'm on your side!:D

If it is really friendly, I'm on your side!:D

Don't worry Uncle Loh, it won't involve satay or beer :D:D

Yes, I will be pleased if that will happen for real.
I dont have to name the players, you know who they are :)

1. MS = MAS
2. WS = DEN
3. XD = INA
4. WD = CHN
5. MD = KOR

What do you think guys? Any comments?

:D:D.....its will happened....only if with good and fair line-judges involved......;);)

Don't worry Uncle Loh, it won't involve satay or beer :D:D

On the contrary satay and beer is a good match and very friendly. Coming to blows is most unfriendly! :D:D:D

On the contrary satay and beer is a good match and very friendly. Coming to blows is most unfriendly! :D:D:D

Well in that case, let's see if our friend oldhand will accept the wager. If we win, I'll fly over to enjoy the winnings. If we lose, I'll ... errr.... be rooted here in Vancouver :D:D:D

Doesn't anyone think the Koreans Lee/Lee can realistically challenge for the WD gold?

Not unless Du or Yu breaks a leg :p
That's as real as it can get.

Should we take a friendly wager?

So, what are you wagering? ;)
I'm willing to bet a picture of HHY's leg.
If you win, you get to keep it too... the picture, I mean :D

Well in that case, let's see if our friend oldhand will accept the wager. If we win, I'll fly over to enjoy the winnings. If we lose, I'll ... errr.... be rooted here in Vancouver :D:D:D

Then oldhand will take the opportunity to seek you out in Vancouver to enjoy his just rewards. Understand there are nice courts there too! ;)

Then oldhand will take the opportunity to seek you out in Vancouver to enjoy his just rewards. Understand there are nice courts there too! ;)

Then you should join oldhand on this long road trip.
Yeah, courts are not bad... ;)
See post #82 (http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47697&page=5)

So, what are you wagering? ;)
I'm willing to bet a picture of HHY's leg.
If you win, you get to keep it too... the picture, I mean :D

That sure is tempting :D:D

Every top badminton nation will be happy if each won a gold, ideally. Except for China. China is aiming for at least 3 gold. 1 gold will possibly see LYB position very vulnerable. Will see.....

Defending MS champion Taufik Hidayat will turn 27 on the second day of the badminton competition (09-17 August) at the Beijing Olympics.

It's quite a romantic idea to imagine that he might give himself a delayed birthday gift in the form of a second gold... but it also looks increasingly unlikely :rolleyes:

I tend to agree with Seasider's distribution for the golds.
It's not just an equitable list... it's a very likely scenario :)
Been told that TH has signed his commitment to OG 08 and surprisingly he does training everyday....he usually takes Wed off but he trained....;) meaning Simon is out...sigh!

Been told that TH has signed his commitment to OG 08 and surprisingly he does training everyday....he usually takes Wed off but he trained....;) meaning Simon is out...sigh!
Good news for many Baddy fans , for the chances to witness last straw from TH :p
Simon still got chances in London 4 years later

Been told that TH has signed his commitment to OG 08 and surprisingly he does training everyday....he usually takes Wed off but he trained....;) meaning Simon is out...sigh!

Hmm, looks like serious preparation from the defending champion?! Simon must wait for London games which means his age will turn 27 in 2012 as his first Olympic experience.

simon is weird..1st time i saw him in match is Thailand open.his result of the second game is 5-21..

Been told that TH has signed his commitment to OG 08 and surprisingly he does training everyday....he usually takes Wed off but he trained....;)



.
It's great to know that TH is working hard to defend his OG Championship.

:):):)
.

Been told that TH has signed his commitment to OG 08 and surprisingly he does training everyday....he usually takes Wed off but he trained....;) meaning Simon is out...sigh!

The Wednesday is a replacement. :)

Great to know Taufik is working on his fitness...
...perhaps it might turn out to be a Happy Birthday, after all :)

Great to know Taufik is working on his fitness...
...perhaps it might turn out to be a Happy Birthday, after all :)


So is WCH -- he is in fitness training but I don't know whether it will be a Happy Birthday for him at the end of it.:)

Hmm, looks like serious preparation from the defending champion?! Simon must wait for London games which means his age will turn 27 in 2012 as his first Olympic experience.

simon are just 21...right???

Nope, he'll be 23 by the end of this month.

Nope, he'll be 23 by the end of this month.

oh...sorry...^^...

Every top badminton nation will be happy if each won a gold, ideally. Except for China. China is aiming for at least 3 gold. 1 gold will possibly see LYB position very vulnerable. Will see.....

For me, Team China will bag 4-5 golds. The only one uncertain is the MD, the Korean pair is a threat.

For me, Team China will bag 4-5 golds. The only one uncertain is the MD, the Korean pair is a threat.

MS – if the final is between LD and LCW, LD definitely has advantages. Can’t really see LCW can handle the pressure to get the first gold for his country, he is just not good enough. I’m going to put my head on the block to say that LCW couldn’t even reach the final with other tough opponents from CHN, KOR and IND.

MS – if the final is between LD and LCW, LD definitely has advantages. Can’t really see LCW can handle the pressure to get the first gold for his country, he is just not good enough. I’m going to put my head on the block to say that LCW couldn’t even reach the final with other tough opponents from CHN, KOR and IND.

WS – the only threat is probably TR. She is too old (physically and mentally) and inexperience (in terms of winning, especially the big ones). She is older than ZN when she won her gold 4 years ago and TR is not in the same league.

MS – if the final is between LD and LCW, LD definitely has advantages. Can’t really see LCW can handle the pressure to get the first gold for his country, he is just not good enough. I’m going to put my head on the block to say that LCW couldn’t even reach the final with other tough opponents from CHN, KOR and IND.

will lin dan make it to final???...can china win xd(how???)???can china win ws(i dont think so)???

MS – if the final is between LD and LCW, LD definitely has advantages. Can’t really see LCW can handle the pressure to get the first gold for his country, he is just not good enough. I’m going to put my head on the block to say that LCW couldn’t even reach the final with other tough opponents from CHN, KOR and IND.

We'll see whether your prediction is right or not:D:D

For me, Team China will bag 4-5 golds. The only one uncertain is the MD, the Korean pair is a threat.

XD – the top IND and CHN pairs are very even, but with home advantage I’ll still favour ZL to get her 3rd XD gold in a row for China.

For me, Team China will bag 4-5 golds. The only one uncertain is the MD, the Korean pair is a threat.

MD – as said before the Korean is a tricky one, they don’t seem to buckle under pressure and doubles is their strength.

has anyone else got the same problems re posting longer than 2 sentences? took me 6 posts to finish wnat I wanted to say!

WS – the only threat is probably TR. She is too old (physically and mentally) and inexperience (in terms of winning, especially the big ones). She is older than ZN when she won her gold 4 years ago and TR is not in the same league.

Really?! The All-England is no longer a biggie, is it? Or is it because too many seeds fell before they could meet Tine? :p

Frankly, Tine's at her best condition now. And her major opponents are having serious doubts, even XXF.

Come to think of it, even CHN WD are having doubts, with KOR, INA pairs lurking and TPE making it a tough affair.

Really?! The All-England is no longer a biggie, is it? Or is it because too many seeds fell before they could meet Tine? :p


Frankly, Tine's at her best condition now. And her major opponents are having serious doubts, even XXF.

Come to think of it, even CHN WD are having doubts, with KOR, INA pairs lurking and TPE making it a tough affair.

that's what i called inexperience, 1 win in what 12-14 years in the circuit.

IMO, that will be a upset if CHN not bag all 3 in WD with the top 4 teams in the world and play with home advantages.

One thing to remind:
We can't based on the perfomance of CHN Badminton players in SS; AE; AG etc to judge whether they are all in serious vulnerable or not.
Recent UC Final in JKT is a clear evidence, the CHN Women's struggling to beat Netherland in QF, and they came back strongly to claim the title yet again - 6 in a row!

that's what i called inexperience, 1 win in what 12-14 years in the circuit.

IMO, that will be a upset if CHN not bag all 3 in WD with the top 4 teams in the world and play with home advantages.

erm...i think just few will feel upset...include u...even mas 3rd class wd(humble ler???:p) can steel a set from the 1st seed in TO...^^...how if they face those so called 2nd class player???...hmm...i think only du jing/yu yang are more stable...zhang jie wen also...hmm...

erm...i think just few will feel upset...include u...even mas 3rd class wd(humble ler???:p) can steel a set from the 1st seed in TO...^^...how if they face those so called 2nd class player???...hmm...i think only du jing/yu yang are more stable...zhang jie wen also...hmm...

you just cannot underestimate the willpower to defend one's olympics title. also with the experience of been there, done that etc. TH included, but he need to find another gear, very soon!

you just cannot underestimate the willpower to defend one's olympics title. also with the experience of been there, done that etc. TH included, but he need to find another gear, very soon!

ok...lets us stop it here...and we continue after OG finish...see who is right...i rate th as the 3rd contender after LD,and lcw...haha...but...hmm...:D...ld...

that's what i called inexperience, 1 win in what 12-14 years in the circuit.



So far TR has bagged 3 Super Series title as well as 1 runner up out of the 5 tournaments she had played in 2008. I wouldn't discounted her easily.
China is doing themselves a big disservice by including ZN instead of ZL. With the exception of Swiss Open, her result in 2008 hasn't been impressive and she can be taken down by 2nd tier player regularly.

MS – if the final is between LD and LCW, LD definitely has advantages. Can’t really see LCW can handle the pressure to get the first gold for his country, he is just not good enough. I’m going to put my head on the block to say that LCW couldn’t even reach the final with other tough opponents from CHN, KOR and IND.

Don't be so sure about LD. I think he's the one who is NOT going to able to reach final. The first round loss from Ronald Susilo 4 yrs ago is still haunting him, plus the pressure from CHN media, LYB and the crowd will jinx his ability.

I think there will be UPSETS! :D:D:D

WS – the only threat is probably TR. She is too old (physically and mentally) and inexperience (in terms of winning, especially the big ones). She is older than ZN when she won her gold 4 years ago and TR is not in the same league.
You should be more realistic...ZN cant even move faster than TR...it does not matter if TR just peaked lately....seems you are really bias in this case...
:cool: TR won AE, not big event? Japan Open is not big event?:cool::cool:

I think there will be UPSETS! :D:D:D
Yeah. Ronald will win the MS Gold :p :D:D

For me, Team China will bag 4-5 golds. The only one uncertain is the MD, the Korean pair is a threat.
Good luck with your prediction....:rolleyes::rolleyes:

that's what i called inexperience, 1 win in what 12-14 years in the circuit.

IMO, that will be a upset if CHN not bag all 3 in WD with the top 4 teams in the world and play with home advantages.
INA at least beat them twice...not one in 12 or 14 yrs....LYB is more worried about KOR WD...They have proved by winning AE...;)

Yeah. Ronald will win the MS Gold :p :D:D

haha... if that happens, I'll give u the YY shirts for FREE... plus my Victor shirts... all for FREE.... :D:p

I think there will be UPSETS! :D:D:D

Yeah. Ronald will win the MS Gold :p :D:D

haha... if that happens, I'll give u the YY shirts for FREE... plus my Victor shirts... all for FREE.... :D:p

Yes. There sure will be upsets!

SINGAPORE BOLEH!!
RONALD SUSIE-LOH BOLEH!!:D:D

New Straits Times

By K.M. Boopathy

2008/07/09

KOO Kien Keat, having suffered one too many setbacks of late, has turned to partner Tan Boon Heong for the support he desperately needs in order to return to winning ways especially with the Beijing Olympics looming large. Kien Keat, often criticised for being too individualistic and lacking commitment, almost missed out on the Olympics due to a freak accident in Bukit Jalil several weeks ago, but is now hoping for Boon Heong to lead the way in the most important event of their careers.

The injury to his right hand, which needed 20 stitches, and right thigh, has shaken up Kien Keat who nevertheless is thankful for a second chance and intends making it a meaningful one in Beijing.

"I have had enough criticism thrown at me and I hope to put things right," said Kien Keat. "Also, the injury nearly ended my Olympic dream, so I am happy to have passed the test at this crucial period.

"I now need his (Boon Heong's) help to make an impact in Beijing."

"I used to do too much on court and this didn't really help. I'm slowly regaining my performance and confidence again.

"The injury had disrupted my preparations but I consider myself lucky to be playing in the Olympics," he added.

"We have improved our understanding of each other's play and though our rivals may not consider us major threats, we can still bounce back."

National doubles coach Rexy Mainaky had also revealed that the players, who had differences, had patched up after a recent heart-to-heart talk in his presence after a training session.

Rexy said both players are now more positive and are really looking forward to their chance for a shot at Olympic gold.

Kien Keat's positive attitude also means that the pair, who were touted as clear favourites for Olympic gold after a fabulous run in 2007, will return to action stronger after missing two Super Series tournaments -- the Singapore and Indonesia Opens -- which were the last warm-up events before the Olympics.

Fellow Olympics-bound pair Choong Tan Fook-Lee Wan Wah also gave the tournaments a miss but their absence wasn't felt as Zakry Latif-Fairuzizuan Tazari went on to clinch both titles.

haha... if that happens, I'll give u the YY shirts for FREE... plus my Victor shirts... all for FREE.... :D:p

Actually if that ever happens Ronald will become an instant millionaire. :rolleyes:

Not bad for a FT. :)

Actually if that ever happens Ronald will become an instant millionaire. :rolleyes:

Not bad for a FT. :)

It will be good for him coz he can settle all the financial disputes with his ex-fiancee LiJiaWei and focus on his newly found love, Kelly Poon... :D:p

arrgghh... wats left for me? :crying: me oso FT leh... :eek::p:D

INA at least beat them twice...not one in 12 or 14 yrs....LYB is more worried about KOR WD...They have proved by winning AE...;)

Finally, someone who supports my claims for KOR WD having a chance

Finally, someone who supports my claims for KOR WD having a chance

Errr... I've been rallying for LYD to win the MD GOLD... If the umpires in Beijing are "clean", the GOLD should go to LYD :D The dream MD Final should be KOR vs CHN :eek::p

Errr... I've been rallying for LYD to win the MD GOLD... If the umpires in Beijing are "clean", the GOLD should go to LYD :D The dream MD Final should be KOR vs CHN :eek::p

I too would like to see LYD/JJS v FHF/CY in the MD final, but what's that got to do with the WD subject you quoted me on?

I too would like to see LYD/JJS v FHF/CY in the MD final, but what's that got to do with the WD subject you quoted me on?

oopppsss... old man like me mixed the WD with the MD... haha... my bad... :p

hurrllooo... who stole my glasses? :D

I think there will be UPSETS! :D:D:D
depends on the definition of upset really.

I'll say the golds will go to the top 4, and the others to the top 8. anything rather than this is a upset.

out of the 15 medals i'll say 2, and max 3 will be ended up as upsets.

Errr... I've been rallying for LYD to win the MD GOLD... If the umpires in Beijing are "clean", the GOLD should go to LYD :D The dream MD Final should be KOR vs CHN :eek::p

U forget our KKK/TBH and The Uncles??

Final : KOO KIEN KIAT/TAN BOON HEONG VS. CHOONG TAN FOOK/ LEE WAN WAH

You should be more realistic...ZN cant even move faster than TR...it does not matter if TR just peaked lately....seems you are really bias in this case...
:cool: TR won AE, not big event? Japan Open is not big event?:cool::cool:


TR didn't peaked lately, she blipped briefly, i.e. not sustainable. if she blipped say just 1 tournament before the OG then she may have a chance to carry it on to the OG to surprise others. her last 12-14 record said it all, you just dont suddenly improved from an average to champion material in a short period at most certainly near the end of your playing years.

You should be more realistic...ZN cant even move faster than TR...it does not matter if TR just peaked lately....seems you are really bias in this case...
:cool: TR won AE, not big event? Japan Open is not big event?:cool::cool:

biased! more a realistic. i'm taking the account of pass and recent form, experience and home advantages.

biased! more a realistic. i'm taking the account of pass and recent form, experience and home advantages.

taking about home advantages, we all accept that the drift in the badminton hall affects the play and will take most players games if not matches to get used to it for a particular venue. I bet you bottom dollars that the chinese team is there day in and day out to get used to it, which is out of bound for everyone else.

U forget our KKK/TBH and The Uncles??

Final : KOO KIEN KIAT/TAN BOON HEONG VS. CHOONG TAN FOOK/ LEE WAN WAH

This "dream" final is as good as susie-lor capturing the MS GOLD :eek::D

But nothing is impossible. May be YKH will shave his head bald again? :p

This "dream" final is as good as susie-lor capturing the MS GOLD :eek::D

But nothing is impossible. May be YKH will shave his head bald again? :p

If this happens, i buy u a great great badminton racket.:D:D

Good luck with your prediction....:rolleyes::rolleyes:

he need more than luck to make the prediction to be true...maybe some uxxixe/lxxe jxxxx can help...:D