Chongqing, China — German table tennis icon Timo Boll played his final match in China on Saturday, marking the end of an era in a country he fondly calls his second home. Competing at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Champions in Chongqing, the 43-year-old faced off against French rising star Felix Lebrun in a thrilling round of 16 match.
Boll battled fiercely against the 17-year-old Lebrun, pushing the match to a full five games. In a nail-biting decider, Boll narrowly conceded defeat with a score of 10-12. The match was a testament to Boll’s enduring skill and passion for the sport, earning applause from fans who have followed his illustrious career over the decades.
China has been a significant part of Boll’s professional journey. His frequent competitions and collaborations in the country have not only elevated his profile but also strengthened the ties between German and Chinese table tennis communities. “China has always been special to me,” Boll shared in a previous interview. “The enthusiasm for table tennis here is unparalleled.”
Felix Lebrun, who advances to face Boll’s compatriot Qiu Dang in the quarterfinals, expressed admiration for Boll. “Playing against Timo was an honor. He’s a legend of the game, and I have learned so much from watching him over the years,” Lebrun said.
Boll’s departure from competitions in China signifies more than just the end of matches on Chinese soil; it highlights the close of a chapter in international table tennis where Boll’s presence has been a constant and inspiring force. His legacy continues to influence a new generation of players both in Europe and Asia.
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German paddler Timo Boll bids farewell to competitions in China
cgtn.com
