8 internationals worth watching

Household names in their own countries, these athletes will be high-profile in Beijing China's Liu Xiang won the gold medal at the Athens Olympics in 2004 in the 110-meter hurdles and set the world record in 2006. Afp/Getty Images Photo by Francois-Xavier Marit 8 internationals worth watching Linda Robertson, McClatchy NewspapersComment on this story Here are eight international athletes to watch at the Beijing Olympics. 1- Lin Dan, China BADMINTON The subject of awe for his skills and scorn for his tantrums, Lin has one of the most recognizable faces in China -- aside from Mao, that is. The "bad boy of badminton" is the two-time defending world champion. Often compared to John McEnroe for his temper on court, he breaks racquets, argues with linesmen and yells at himself. His girlfriend, Xie Xingfang, is the No. 1 women's... [read full story]