China's table tennis landscape is undergoing a leadership transition as legendary player and coach Liu Guoliang resigned from his role as president of the Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA) on Wednesday. Current vice president Wang Liqin, a former Olympic champion, has been elected as the organization's new leader.
Liu, 48, leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. The Grand Slam winner – earning Olympic, World Championship, and World Cup titles – transitioned to coaching in 2013, steering China to four gold medals at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Appointed CTTA president in 2018, his tenure saw Chinese dominance continue with nine out of ten Olympic table tennis golds secured at both Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024.
Wang Liqin, 46, brings his own pedigree to the role. A two-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time world singles champion, he retired from competitive play in 2013 and has served as CTTA vice president since 2018. Analysts suggest his deep understanding of both competitive and administrative aspects of the sport could ensure continuity in China's table tennis success.
The leadership change comes as China prepares for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where its table tennis team aims to maintain its position as the sport's global powerhouse.
