Athletes and Storylines to Watch at the Paris Olympics Table Tennis Competition

The Paris Olympics table tennis competition will feature top athletes like Ma Long and Sun Yingsha from China, rising star Felix Lebrun from France, and veteran Timo Boll from Germany. Key storylines include China's dominance, the Lebrun brothers' rise, and unique competitors like Ni Xialian and Bruna Alexandre. Competitions run from July 27 to August 10.

As the Paris Olympics approach, the table tennis competition is set to feature a range of compelling athletes and storylines. Key players include China's Ma Long and Sun Yingsha, both Olympic champions, as well as up-and-coming French star Felix Lebrun, whose rapid ascent in the rankings has captured attention globally.

China continues to dominate the sport since its addition to the Olympic program in 1988, securing 32 of 37 gold medals. The Lebrun brothers of France have risen dramatically in the ranks and could pose a challenge to China's supremacy at their home Olympics. Notably, veteran player Timo Boll of Germany will retire after participating in his seventh Olympic Games.

Unique competitors include Ni Xialian of Luxembourg, who will be the oldest at 61, and 16-year-old Miwa Harimoto of Japan, the youngest. Bruna Alexandre of Brazil will compete in both the Olympics and the Paralympics, showcasing remarkable adaptability. The competition kicks off on July 27, with singles and team events running until August 10.

(With inputs from agencies.)