1.   Because of a painful lower-back condition, Graf has not competed since the Open, but she intends to play at the Garden.

2.   He continued to compete since his indictment last year, and during the trial he expressed optimism he could qualify for the team.

3.   It was the first time she had competed since high school, where she was on the swimming, bowling and soccer teams.

4.   Neither has been physically able to compete since the U.S. Open.

5.   Roelke, who has been competing since the start, was in second place last week among his virtual opponents.

6.   Bevilacqua, who has not competed since Atlanta, is eligible to compete now if she wishes.

7.   But Olympic silver medalist Ronny Weller of Germany, who has not competed since Sydney, is scheduled to make his return to competitions this week.

8.   Defending champion Jong Song-ok, the first North Korean to win a medal at the World Championships, has not competed since her triumph in Seville.

9.   Defending champion Jong Song-ok, the first North Korean to win a medal at the World Championships, has not competed since winning in Seville.

10.   It was the first time the U.S. players competed together since their World Cup victory.