China's table tennis legend Ma Long accepts a new role at Paris 2024

China's Ma Long is seen by many as one of the greatest table tennis players in history after winning two Olympic men's singles gold medals, three World Championships titles, and three World Cup golds among other honors. He will participate in the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris, which will be the fourth Olympic Games in his career.

At the age of 35, Ma won the Table Tennis World Cup men's singles title in south China's Macao Special Administrative Region in April. He first swept his teammate Wang Chuqin 4-0 in the semifinals and then came back from a three-game deficit to defeat his compatriot Lin Gaoyuan in the final to secure the gold.

Having played over 20 years for the Chinese national team, Ma's experience is just as valuable as his skills. He shared every piece of it with his teammates in their preparation for the Olympics as part of his efforts in trying to improve the team's strength.

"Sometimes we talk about the experience of playing at the Olympics," Ma told China Media Group. "… Now that we don't compete with each other on the same tack anymore, it's much easier for us to communicate."

Despite his glorious career, Ma keeps pushing himself in practice to grow better. For example, he uses both his main and backup paddles, just in case he might have to switch in real matches. It's only one of the details of his work, but details are why he's won 30 world titles.

Ma will participate in only the team event at the Games in Paris. Fan Zhendong and Wang will compete in the men's singles events. Despite playing a different role, Ma will continue to be the spine of the Chinese national team.

"I thought about what my final match will be like countless times," Ma said. "At this age, I think I have made peace with many things and will face everything with a better mindset."