From watching Ae 2004 I have observed certain points (corect me if I am wrong but not in an emotive Third World manner). 1) Taufik- I've watched the semis which was a real gem. I think Gade proved that to beat Taufik one just has to beat him to the punch just like Bao and do it quickly in 2 sets.I think Taufik still likes to play long rallies and exploit openings. 2) Gade- Seems heavier , not so mobile, peculiar way of waiting for a return with right foot forward and cutting off returns with a back-hand smash. Of course most obvious problem is to sustain pace for 3 sets. 3) Lin Dan- To this day remains enigma to me, cant understand what makes him tick, is it sound defence, explosive,opportunistic attack or deception in pace and direction ?or sher fitness ? 4) Men' doubles- Very clever tactic to drive into opponent's body when they are tall and lanky but after doing it one too many times, a reasonably smart opponent will sure find some way to adjust, besides element of surprise is gone.
