China could serve up a medal sweep

Compiled by Globe Staff, 09/15/2000

MEN

WHEN: Sept. 23 (doubles), Sept. 25 (singles)

US ENTRIES: Khoa Nguyen, Todd Sweeris, Cheng Ying Hua, Davi Zhuang

FAVORITES: Singles: 1. Kong Linghui, China; 2. Vladimir Samsonov, Belarus; 3. Liu Guoliang, China; Doubles: 1. China; 2. China; 3. Taipei.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: As always, it'll be the Chinese intramural championships. They won all the gold in Atlanta and figure to do it again. No chance for the Americans, who didn't survive the prelims last time and don't have anyone ranked in the top 15.

WOMEN

WHEN: Sept. 22 (doubles), Sept. 24 (singles)

US ENTRIES: Tawny Banh, Gao Jun Chang, Michelle Do, Jasna Reed

FAVORITES: Singles: 1. Wang Nan, China; 2. Li Ju, China; 3. Chen Jing, Taipei; Doubles: 1. China; 2. China; 3. Taipei.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR: China's Wang Nan is ranked No. 1 in he world but is lamenting the lack of competition now that countrywoman and four-time Olympic medalist Deng Yaping has stopped competing.