Chinese · Anshan, China · Born 20 October 1988The Dragon — the consensus pick as the greatest table tennis player in history, with three Olympic gold medals and five World Championship titles.
Born in Anshan, Liaoning Province, Ma Long began playing table tennis at age five and quickly demonstrated exceptional talent. He joined the Chinese national youth team system as a teenager, developing under the rigorous training programs that have made China the dominant force in international table tennis. His early coaches recognized his natural ability to combine powerful forehand attacks with defensive versatility. Ma Long's professional career reached its zenith during the 2010s, when he established himself as the world's premier player. He claimed his first World Championship singles title in 2015, followed by Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games. His peak years saw him maintain the world number one ranking for extended periods, demonstrating remarkable consistency against elite competition. The 2020 Tokyo Olympics marked another career pinnacle when he successfully defended his singles title, becoming only the second player in history to win consecutive Olympic singles gold medals. His defining achievement remains becoming the first player to complete the "Super Grand Slam" twice, winning all major tournaments including the Olympics, World Championships, World Cup, and ITTF World Tour Grand Finals multiple times. Ma Long's five World Championship singles titles and three Olympic gold medals represent the highest level of sustained excellence in modern table tennis. His playing style combined explosive power with tactical intelligence, making him equally dangerous in fast exchanges and prolonged rallies. Ma Long's impact extends beyond his trophy collection. His technical innovations, particularly his forehand loop technique and service variations, have influenced coaching methods worldwide. He elevated the sport's profile in China and internationally, inspiring a generation of players while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism. His longevity at the sport's summit, competing successfully into his thirties in a game that typically favors younger players, demonstrates exceptional physical conditioning and mental resilience. Ma Long's career represents the pinnacle of modern table tennis achievement.
Only player to achieve Super Grand Slam twice
He is the only player in history to complete the Super Grand Slam twice — considered the most complete achievement in table tennis.
Did You Know?How They Played
Right-handed penhold grip with powerful forehand loops
Lasting Impact
Greatest table tennis player of all time with unprecedented achievements
Career Honours
- Olympic Gold 3x (2016 2020)
- World Champion 5x
- Super Grand Slam twice (only player)
Chinese Athletes