Is there anything in common between them? Certainly, both of them are Olympic champions in badminton two times in a row. You may not like it, but both of them are Chinese athletes, from the Mainland and Taiwan, respectively.

However, Lin gained more importance in his sports career than that of Li, for he has been the top player in mens singles: a grand-slam winner, winning two-round titles in the Olympics, World Championship, UK Open, Denmark Open, and numerous others. He has been the GOAT in mens singles ever. No matter whether you like it or not, the achievements of the doubles players in badminton, tennis, and table tennis, as Li is, pale in comparison with those of the singles players. Therefore, as badminton players, Lin is undoubtedly greater than Li in their performances. 

But now Li, at only 30, is nominated as the "minister" of the newly-founded Ministry of Physical Education. What the hell! Are you kidding me?

How about Lin?  He must have earned some money from the ads, commercials, and his badminton training school, managed with his wife, Xie, also an Olympic silver medalist. How about an official or honorable position as an award for him? No way!