Does it mean that SYS isn't going? Same like in the old days when LSW was no 1 in the world but never played olympics. Also interesting is if they send ML for the 3rd olympics title.
Yeah I also noticed Liang was very slow and often jump during FH topspins. Lin is quite fast and seems to be confident. Anyway I fish all the best to Noshad, he is very smart even with the disability.
I did not think he has a chance with LJK even during the game, but his serves are tricky and Liang couldn't find the right answer. If Lin Shindong is going to have same problems everything is possible.
Actually FZD had the biggest problem with LSS serves. Korean put many times empty serve or with little backspin and then it was easy to finish it with 3rd ball attack after FZD popped it too high.
First you should decide how you are going to play. Personally I think medium pips is great for intermediate style. It gives you control, you can play almost every stroke and you do not have to twiddle the racket.
I do not know these specific rubbers, but general rule is:
short pips - attack
medium pips - attack and defense
long pips - defense
If you look for rubber for chopping and attacking as well you need to go for medium pips. Short pips are mainly used for attack close to the table look at Mima Ito...
Quite tight match between Kasumi and Chen Meng. Ishikawa had a good plan for the match make a lot of heavy underspin pushes. Chinese seems to be little bit nervous during the match but in the end she stayed focused and took last 4 points with confidence.
Somehow I think if stupid JTTA pick Mizutani over Niwa they could fight for bronze medal. At least they could choose Uda Yukia to let him gain more experience.
Of course I do not have anything against Koki the same is with Kasumi. They can both play untill death if they wish, it is up to...