Liu Guoliang Mourns the Loss of Another "Pillar" in Table Tennis, Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha Bid Farewell with Fondness
Recently, the table tennis family has experienced a heart-wrenching moment with the quiet departure of another "pillar" who has made significant contributions to China's table tennis cause.
This news has undoubtedly caused a great shock throughout the national table tennis community. Chairman Liu Guoliang of the National Table Tennis Association choked back tears several times at the farewell ceremony, deeply reminiscing about the veteran player. As representatives of the younger generation of national table tennis, Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha were also present with tears in their eyes, bidding a reluctant farewell to this former "pillar of stability."
The term "pillar" not only refers to the immense contributions made by players on the court but also symbolizes a spirit. From the early days of Wang Liqin and Ma Lin to later generations like Zhang Jike and Ma Long, these names carry the glory and splendor of national table tennis. The loss of each "pillar" marks a significant loss in the history of national table tennis. This time, we bid farewell to a "veteran" who has been diligently serving within the national table tennis team for many years. He has stabilized the team in countless competitions and carried the banner of Chinese table tennis.
Chairman Liu Guoliang emotionally said at the farewell ceremony, "He was the backbone of our national table tennis team. Whether on the court or during training, he set an example and became a role model for young players. His departure marks the end of an era, but the spirit he left behind will forever inspire us to continue moving forward."
As representatives of the new generation of national table tennis, Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha also expressed their respect for this "pillar" at the farewell ceremony. Wang Chuqin stated, "He has always been my idol since childhood. I could not have achieved what I have today without his guidance and help." Sun Yingsha, moved, said, "Before every competition, he would always give me some special advice to help me adjust my mindset. He is not only my coach but also my mentor and friend." It can be said that the bond between this "pillar" and the younger generation is very profound. Whether on the training ground or in life, he cared for and loved these younger players like an older brother. Now, his departure not only leaves the national table tennis team without an important spiritual pillar but also deprives these young players of a mentor they could confide in.
When mentioning this "pillar," many people first think of his glorious achievements on the court. As a member of the national table tennis team, he helped China win numerous championship trophies, especially in several key competitions where his performance was described as "god-level." However, what he brought to the national table tennis team extends far beyond victory. More importantly, he always maintained a humble heart both on and off the court, always placing the interests of the team first. Whether as a player or later as a coach, he consistently set an example, silently contributing and paving the way for the future development of national table tennis. Liu Guoliang has repeatedly stated, "He is a person who never complains and never retreats. He always silently contributes to the team, and no matter how many difficulties he encounters, he can persevere. He is one of the most perfect players in my mind."
Chairman Liu Guoliang's speech at the farewell ceremony moved many to tears. Recalling the years he fought side by side with this "pillar," his eyes were filled with emotion and reluctance. He said emotionally, "He is the eternal example of our national table tennis team. His tenacity and fighting spirit will forever be engraved in the history of national table tennis. Although he has left us, the spiritual wealth he left behind will continue to inspire us to move forward." Liu's words are not only filled with personal sentiment but also represent the entire national table tennis team's respect for this veteran. Although this "pillar" has left the court, his spirit has deeply integrated into the veins of national table tennis and become part of Chinese table tennis culture.
With the departure of this veteran, the baton of national table tennis has firmly been passed into the hands of the younger generation represented by Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha. As the backbone of national table tennis, they must not only continue the glory of national table tennis on the court but also inherit the pioneering spirit of their predecessors in terms of spirit.
Now, it's your turn.
