Time for China to make its athletes household names

A remarkable event at the Asian Games went undebated, at least in the English press: the choice of China's flag bearer for the opening ceremony. Bao Chunlai, a 23-year-old badminton player, had the honor of leading his country for the spectacle that millions around the world followed.

But what was so curious about the choice was that Bao is not yet an achiever; indeed, even in the badminton squad, he is no more than a promising youngster who has yet to win anything of significance. His biggest accomplishment on the international stage was a win at the Korea Open last year and a runner-up position at the World Championships.

Indeed, it was quite surprising that the Chinese chose a badminton player for the honor of carrying the flag, considering that their squad boasted many of the world's finest sportspeople.