The Timeless Dragon Defying Age and Redefining Greatness
Photo by Pierre-Yves Beaudouin, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
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Ma Long is an absolute legend in the world of table tennis, and it’s incredible that he’s still ranked in the top ten, especially given his age. Typically, players in their 30s start slowing down because the sport is so physically demanding. But Ma Long has adapted brilliantly, and that’s a big part of why he’s still so competitive.
If you look at his playing style now compared to his younger days, there’s a noticeable shift. When he was younger, he relied a lot on his explosive footwork and sheer speed. He could dominate rallies with his relentless attacks and incredible consistency. But as he’s gotten older, his game has become more about strategy, placement, and timing. He’s reading the game better than ever, using his experience to outsmart opponents rather than just overpower them. It’s like he’s become this master tactician who knows exactly how to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses.
Physically, Ma Long is doing everything to stay in peak condition. He’s been open about how much effort he puts into maintaining his fitness. His training isn’t just about table tennis anymore—it includes a lot of focus on flexibility, recovery, and injury prevention. Things like strength training, yoga, and physiotherapy play a big role in keeping his body ready for competition. He’s said in interviews that staying healthy is one of his top priorities because he knows his body doesn’t recover like it did in his 20s.
As for retirement, Ma Long has been pretty thoughtful in his responses. He’s acknowledged that he’s nearing the end of his career, but he hasn’t put a specific timeline on it. He’s said things like, “As long as I can still compete at a high level and contribute to the sport, I want to continue.” That passion for the game and his desire to inspire the next generation seem to be what’s keeping him going. He’s not just playing for himself anymore—he’s playing for the legacy he’s building.
Recent Standout Performances
Despite the challenges of competing at the highest level, Ma Long has delivered impressive performances in recent years. At the 2023 World Table Tennis Championships in Durban, he reached the semifinals, demonstrating his enduring ability to compete with the world's best. His victory over up-and-coming star Lin Shidong in a five-game thriller showcased his mental toughness and tactical brilliance. Additionally, his performance at the WTT Champions events highlighted his consistency, with key wins against younger, top-ranked players such as Wang Chuqin and Tomokazu Harimoto.
Ma Long used the following blade and rubber combination
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