Hu says table tennis would be his sport at Games

BEIJING, August 1 - Chinese President Hu Jintao said Friday that if he were to compete in an Olympic discipline, he would go for table tennis, although he did not think there was a spot for him on the national team.

In a light-hearted finale to a meeting with foreign correspondents, Hu also revealed an interest in swimming, a sport previously favoured by leaders such as Mao Zedong, the founder of Communist China.

"I have special interest for table tennis and swimming," Hu said in response to a question about what sports he would follow with particular interest during the Beijing Games, which begin next week.

"If I were to choose what kind of event I would like to take part in, I would choose table tennis," he said.

"But I would like to let you know that since the line-up of the Chinese table tennis team is already finalised and made public, it seems my wish can hardly be granted."

Hu has previously demonstrated his enthusiasm for table tennis, a sport in which China has traditionally excelled.

During a visit to Japan in May, he took off his jacket and glasses and showed his skill in a brief round of ping-pong with Ai Fukuhara, a Japanese table tennis star who is popular in China.

(Agencies)