Recently, the withdrawal of three Olympic champions, Fan Zhendong, Chen Meng, and Ma Long from the world rankings has become a hot topic in the sports world. Among them, WTT (World Table Tennis Corporation) and Liu Guoliang, the head coach, have become the targets of criticism from fans and the media. Hong Kong media is even more furious at WTT for using Chinese money to bully Chinese athletes.
Whether it's Fan Zhendong, Chen Meng, or Ma Long, their withdrawal from the world rankings is due to new regulations introduced by WTT, which stipulate that players will be fined if they do not participate in competitions. Ma Long, as a 36-year-old veteran, although experienced, cannot match his previous physical condition. Ma Long did not really plan to retire in the near future; out of love for the sport, he still wanted to compete in some events. However, with the introduction of these new rules, he had no choice but to reluctantly give up participating! Fan Zhendong's situation is even more complicated. We can sense his inner helplessness from his official announcement. Chen Meng's situation is similar. She had considered not playing during the Paris Olympic cycle. It was Liu Guoliang's encouragement that motivated Chen Meng to return to the court again.
The withdrawal of these three Olympic champions will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the promotion and development of table tennis! Therefore, there must be problems with the regulations set by WTT.
Hong Kong media 01 Sports pointed out in its article that most of WTT's sponsors come from China. Companies like Baishui Mountain, Shuijingfang, Ying Aoli Flooring, and Agricultural Bank are all long-term sponsors of WTT. Additionally, table tennis equipment brand Hongshuangxi and apparel brand Li-Ning are also from China. It can be said that Chinese enterprises are the main financial backers of WTT. However, WTT now seems to be bullying Chinese table tennis athletes.
Some media reported that WTT has made huge profits. However, the amount of prize money given to athletes is minimal, and what is even more unacceptable is that fines are imposed. This is exploiting the athletes. Taking the Chinese Grand Slam as an example, it is reported that the revenue from ticket sales and sponsorships amounts to nearly 100 million yuan for WTT. Yet, the actual prize money for the players is only more than 10 million yuan.
Some people are dissatisfied with Liu Guoliang's performance in this matter. Although Liu Guoliang has made great contributions to the Chinese table tennis project, as the chairman of the Chinese Table Tennis Association, he should consider his own athletes more. As the first vice-chairman of the International Table Tennis Federation, Liu Guoliang should consider the promotion and development of the sport even more. As the chairman of WTT, the players are like employees, and Liu Guoliang should consider their physical and mental well-being! Although Liu Guoliang plays three roles in one, honestly, in this matter, he has failed in his duties from any perspective!
Up to now, neither WTT nor the International Table Tennis Federation has come up with effective solutions to address the issue. It is regrettable! Do you agree?