The results of the Finals will immediately impact the first world rankings of 2008 and the top 20 players will earn direct berths to the Beijing Olympics, with no more than two players from the same association, according to the ITTF.

The battle for the rankings points brings added drama to the Finals, promising some fiercely fought competitions between associations and teammates alike.

"Though the competition is called a test event for Beijing's Olympics stadium, the results might determine a player's Olympic chances, so I am sure everyone will do their best to win," said Yao.

Peking University Gymnasium, located in northwest Beijing, is one of 12 new venues built for next year's Olympic Games. It will be able to seat 8,000 spectators.

There have been some concerns about whether the venue would be completed in time after a fire threatened construction four month ago.

It was later found to have had a limited impact on the main construction of the gym, and no trace of the fire remains today.