"Empires rise and fall like the abdomen of god," said Buddhist radio personality Wes Nisker. "It's just the universe breathing." For half a century, Austria-Hungary ruled the abdomen of Europe. The so-called "Dual Monarchy" held sway from 1867 until internal conflict sparked the First World War, resulting in its dissolution. In the aftermath of what was optimistically termed "the war to end all wars," Hungary dominated the new sport known as table tennis. Mária Mednyánszky won the first five world championships, spanning 1926-1931, a number equaled by her countryman Viktor Barna in 1935. Austria was no slouch, finishing runner-up to Hungary four times in the men's teams world championships during that span, and finally claiming the top spot in 1936. Austria is the homeland of Richard Bergmann, whose four men's singles titles are second only to Barna. In the 2003 World Championships, Werner Schlager elevated the Austrian flag in the men's singles, the only non-Chinese banner yet flown in that category this century. Now, as an added twist, Hungarian-born Robert Gardos is Austria's top player on the men's team. The world #28 teamed with Daniel Habeson and Stefan Fegerl to win the 2015 European Championship. Currently, both countries face the worst pandemic since 1918, which coincidentally was the last year of their Dual Monarchy. With the world shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, both the Austrian and Hungarian teams have spent the spring and early summer in their respective bubbles, training only with members of their own teams. Their caution has paid off, as improved public health in central Europe has permitted a gradual reopening. Following the cues of their respective governments, the Austrian men's team have invited their Hungarian counterparts to train together in the town of Stockerau. "For hygienic reasons, for a long time we only trained with each other, so we are very happy with the arrival of the Hungarian team," says Austria's #2 Daniel Habeson. "The practices are so much more varied this way, and it is always good to see and play against other styles, it benefits everyone." The Hungarians were also more than happy to burst their bubble. "We have been training with each other in Budapest for a relatively long time, so, even from this point of view it is good that we are able to play with others now," reports Hungary's #2 Adam Szudi. "Of course, we are still in the preparation period... but I am on my way to get back on the level where I was before." It has been over a century since the Dual Monarchy of Austria and Hungary fell. Now, facing another type of existential threat, they have once again joined forces, pooled their resources and gotten back on their horses. Will Austria and Hungary again challenge the world's superpowers? Few savvy bettors would pick a European all-star steam, let alone any of its constituent nations, to dethrone China. Still, Austria and Hungary are currently training in the same hall where Werner Schlager worked to beat the odds and become world champion. As long as the universe keeps breathing, they have a shot.

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