Best Table Tennis Players of All Time

Although table tennis is not the most popular game worldwide, it is the most popular and real in Asia. I am very familiar with players who are now playing and those who have recently retired, but I know less about former players.

TOP 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time

Here I discussed the 24 best players of ping pong.

1) Jan-Ove Waldner:

• Nationality: Sweden
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: October 3, 1965
• Olympic Games:  1 gold, 1 silver medal

Jan-Ove Waldner is the greatest ping-pong player. He has a long and illustrious career that spans over three decades, with numerous achievements to his name.

Waldner’s playing style is often described as smooth, elegant, and strategic. He is known for his exceptional ball control, precision shots, and outstanding footwork. Waldner has a unique ability to read his opponents’ moves and respond with calculated and creative shots, making him a formidable opponent on the table. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievement:

Waldner has achieved remarkable success in international competitions, representing Sweden in various tournaments. He has won the prestigious World Table Tennis Championships in singles and doubles categories, as well as multiple European Table Tennis Championships titles.

Waldner has also competed in several Olympic Games. Waldner earned a gold medal in the singles category at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.  Waldner earned a silver medal in the team event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

2) Ma Long:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: October 20, 1988
• Olympic Games:  5 Gold Medals

Ma Long is a Chinese ping-pong player. Ma Long is known for his exceptional athleticism, skill, and versatility, Ma Long has been a dominant force in the world of table tennis for over a decade. He has a relentless playing style, characterized by his powerful shots, lightning-fast footwork, and strategic gameplay. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievement:

Ma Long has a remarkable list of achievements to his name. He has won the prestigious World Table Tennis Championships multiple times in both singles and team events Ma Long also claimed numerous titles in other international competitions. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Ma Long has represented China in several Olympic Games, earning gold medals in both the singles and team events at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

He has achieved the rare distinction of holding all three major titles in table tennis – the World Championships, the World Cup, and the Olympic Games – at once.

3) Wang Liqin:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: June 18, 1978
• Olympic Games: 2 gold and Bronze medals

Wang Liqin ping pongplayer. Wang is widely regarded as the most accomplished player in the history of table tennis, known for his exceptional skills, consistency, and versatility. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Wang Liqin’s playing style is characterized by his powerful forehand and backhand loops, precise shots, and keen strategic acumen.

Achievement:

Wang Liqin has a long list of achievements to his name. He has won the prestigious World Ping Pong Championships multiple times in both singles and team events and has claimed numerous titles in other international competitions. Wang Liqin also represented China in several Olympic Games. Wang Liqin earns gold medals in the team event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, the 2004 Athens Olympics, and the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

4) Zhang Jike:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: February 16, 1988
• Olympic Games: 3 Gold and 1 Silver Medal

Zhang Jike is a ping pong player known for his exceptional skills, aggressive playing style, and charismatic personality. Zhang Jike is regarded as the most talented and successful player in the history of table tennis. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Zhang Jike is known for his powerful forehand and backhand shots, lightning-fast footwork, and ability to thrive under pressure.

Achievement:

Zhang Jike has an impressive list of achievements to his name. Zhang Jike won the prestigious World Ping Pong Championships multiple times in both singles and team events and has claimed numerous titles in other international competitions. Zhang Jike also represented China in several Olympic Games. Zhang Jike earned gold medals in both the singles and team events at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

5) Xu Xin:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: January 8, 1990
• Olympic Games: 2 Gold medals and 1 silver Medal

Xu Xin is a highly skilled ping-pong player known for his unique playing style, remarkable athleticism, and exceptional versatility. Xu Xin is regarded as the top players in the world and has earned a reputation for his incredible speed, agility, and precision on the table. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Xu Xin’s playing style is characterized by his powerful forehand and backhand loops, creative shot-making, and strategic gameplay.

Achievement:

Xu Xin has a long list of achievements to his name. Xu Xin has won the prestigious World Ping Pong Championships multiple times in both singles and team events and has claimed numerous titles in other international competitions. Xu Xin has also represented China in several Olympic Games. Xu Xin earns gold medals in the team event at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

Xu Xin is known for his sportsmanship and professionalism. Xu Xin is highly respected for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to constantly improving his skills. Xu Xin is also recognized for his ability to adapt to different playing conditions and opponents, making him a formidable competitor in any match.

6) Liu Guoliang:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: January 10, 1976
• Olympic Games: 2 Gold medals and 1 silver Medal

Liu Guoliang is a   ping pong player and coach. Liu Guoliang is widely regarded as the most accomplished and influential figure in the history of table tennis. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Liu Guoliang is known for his exceptional skills, strategic acumen, and leadership qualities.

Achievements:

Liu Guoliang had a highly successful career, winning numerous national and international titles. He was known for his powerful and precise shots, as well as his keen tactical understanding of the game. After retiring as a player, Liu Guoliang transitioned to coaching and made a significant impact in the Chinese ping-pong community.

Coaching achievements:

Under his leadership, the Chinese national team achieved unprecedented success, dominating the world ping-pong scene for many years. Liu Guoliang served as the head coach of the Chinese national team from 2003 to 2017. During this regime, the team won multiple Olympic gold medals, World Championships, and other prestigious titles. Liu Guoliang’s coaching philosophy emphasized not only technical skills but also mental toughness, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

The coaching achievements of Liu Guoliang have been recognized for his contributions to the development and promotion of ping pong globally. Liu Guoliang has been involved in various initiatives to grow the sport and enhance its popularity worldwide. Liu Guoliang’s leadership, dedication, and passion for the sport have earned him widespread admiration and respect from the ping pong community. Liu Guoliangis considered a legend in the sport.

7) Timo Boll:

• Nationality: German
• Playing style: Left-handed
• Born: March 8, 1981
• Olympic Games: 8 silvers and 4 bronzes and numerous Gold Medals

Timo Boll is a highly accomplished ping-pong player. Timo Boll ll has earned a reputation as the best European player in the history of the sport. Boll is known for his exceptional skills, versatility, and tactical acumen. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Timo Boll has a strong forehand and backhand and is known for his powerful and precise shots.

Achievements:

Boll has won numerous national and international titles. It includes multiple European Championships and World Championships. Timo Boll has represented Germany in several Olympic Games and has been a consistent presence at the top of the world rankings. Boll is respected for his sportsmanship, professionalism, and his dedication to the sport.

Timo Boll has been an inspiration to many aspiring ping pong players and has played a significant role in promoting the sport in Europe and around the world. Boll’s exceptional talent and achievements have made him a legend in the world of table tennis. Timo Boll continues to be a formidable competitor on the international stage.

8) Fan Zhendong:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: January 22, 1997
• Olympic Games: 1 Gold medal and 1 silver Medal

Fan Zhendong is a young and talented ping-pong player. Fan Zhendong has quickly risen to prominence in the world of table tennis. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Fan Zhendong is known for his exceptional skills, aggressive playing style, and remarkable consistency on the table. Fan Zhendong has a powerful forehand and backhand.

Achievements:

Fan Zhendong has won numerous national and international titles. It includes multiple World Championships and Asian Championships. Fan Zhendong has also represented China in several Olympic Games. Fan Zhendong earned a gold medal in the team event at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. Fan Zhendong’s exceptional talent, determination, and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him the top player in the world,. Fan Zhendong continues to be a dominant force in the sport of table tennis.

9) Jörgen Persson:

• Nationality: Sweden
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: April 22, 1965

Jörgen Persson is a legendary ping pongplayer. Jörgen Persson is known for his outstanding career and contributions to the sport. Jörgen Persson is considered the best player from Sweden and Europe. Jörgen Persson is the most accomplished player in the history of table tennis. Persson has a unique playing style, combining exceptional footwork, tactical awareness, and precise shots. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Jörgen Persson has won numerous national and international titles. it includes multiple European Championships, World Championships, and Olympic medals. Persson has represented Sweden in several Olympic Games and has been a prominent figure in the international ping-pong scene for many years.

Persson has also been involved in the coaching and development of the sport. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

10) Jean-Philippe Gatien:

• Nationality: France
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: October 16, 1968

Jean-Philippe Gatien is a   professional ping-pong player. Jean-Philippe Gatien gained international recognition in the 1990s. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Gatien’s notable achievements include winning the gold medal in men’s singles at the 1993 World Ping Pong Championships. Jean-Philippe Gatien represents France in multiple European championships and the Olympics. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. Jean-Philippe Gatien is known for his smooth playing style, exceptional footwork, and tactical acumen on the table.

11) Kong Linghui:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: October 18, 1975

Kong Linghui is a legendary ping-pong player who has made significant contributions to the sport. Kong is known for his fast attacking style, powerful forehand, and exceptional footwork. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Kong Linghui has won numerous titles, including an Olympic gold medal in men’s singles at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. Kong Linghui has been a successful coach as well. Kong Linghui’s remarkable career, his playing style, his coaching impact, and his influence on Chinese table tennis.

12) Wang Hao:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: December 15, 1983

Wang Hao is a highly accomplished ping-pong player. Wang Hao is known for his outstanding skills and achievements in the sport. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Wang Hao has won multiple Olympic gold medals and world championships in both team and individual events, making Wang Hao the most successful ping pong player in history. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time Wang Hao is known for his versatile playing style, exceptional control, and powerful forehand. Wang Hao’s illustrious career, his playing style, his memorable matches, and his legacy in Chinese table tennis.

13) Ding Ning:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: June 20, 1990

Ding Ning is a top-ranked ping pong player known for her exceptional talent and achievements in the sport. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Ding Ning has won multiple Olympic gold medals, world championships, and other prestigious titles. It establishes her female ping pong player’s world. Ding Ning is known for her graceful playing style, deceptive serves, and tactical prowess. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. Ding Ning’s career highlights, her playing style, her contributions to women’s table tennis, and her impact on Chinese table tennis.

14) Li Li Xiaoxia:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: January 16, 1988

Li Li Xiaoxia is a highly skilled ping-pong player. Li Li Xiaoxia is known for her aggressive playing style and remarkable achievements in the sport. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Li Xiaoxia has won multiple Olympic gold medals and world championships, showcasing her exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis. Li Xiaoxia is known for her powerful forehand, quick footwork, and mental toughness on the table.

15) Liang Geliang:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: April 1, 1969

Liang Geliang is a  professional ping-pong player from China. Liang Geliang is known for his powerful playing style, exceptional skills, and strategic approach to the game. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Liang Geliang has won multiple championships and represented China in various international competitions. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

16) Ryu Seung-min:

• Nationality: South Korea
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: August 5, 1982

Ryu Seung-min is a   professional ping-pong player. Ryu Seung-min is known for his aggressive playing style, powerful backhand, and exceptional footwork. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time

Achievements:

Ryu Seung-min achieved a major breakthrough in his career by winning the gold medal in men’s singles at the 2004 Athens Olympics, becoming the first South Korean to win Olympic gold in table tennis.AchievementsRyu Seung-min achieved a major breakthrough in his career by winning the gold medal in men’s singles at the 2004 Athens Olympics, becoming the first South Korean to win Olympic gold in table tennis.

17) Ma Lin:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: February 19, 1980

Ma Lin (China): Ma Lin is a   professional ping-pong player. Ma Lin is widely regarded as the greatest player of all time. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Ma Lin has won multiple Olympic gold medals, world championships, and other prestigious titles. It establishes him as a dominant force in the sport. Ma Lin is known for his all-around playing style, exceptional skills, and fierce competitiveness.

18) Chen Qi:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed

Chen Qi is a   professional ping-pong player. Chen Qi is known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

 Chen Qi has won multiple world championships and other prestigious titles, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. Chen Qi is known for his aggressive playing style, powerful forehand, and tactical acumen on the table. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

19) Waldemar Milewicz:

• Nationality: Poland
• Playing style:
• Born: January 22, 1966

Waldemar Milewicz is a   professional ping pongplayer. Waldemar Milewicz has represented Poland in numerous international competitions. Milewicz is known for his unique playing style, characterized by his defensive approach and exceptional control over the ball. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Waldemar Milewicz has won multiple national championships in Poland and has been a prominent figure in European table tennis.

20) Vladimir Samsonov:

• Nationality: Belarus
• Playing style: Right-handed  
• Born: on April 17, 1976

Vladimir Samsonov is a highly respected ping-pong player. Vladimir Samsonov has a successful career representing Belarus in various international competitions. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. Samsonov is known for his smooth playing style, exceptional technique, and consistency on the table.

Achievements:

Vladimir Samsonov has won multiple European championships, world championships, and other prestigious titles, establishing himself as the best ping pong player from Belarus. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time.

21) Seiya Kishikawa:

• Nationality: Japan
• Playing style: Right-handed  
• Born: October 27, 1988

Seiya Kishikawa is a professional ping pong player. Seiya Kishikawa is known for his skill and achievements in the sport. Kishikawa is known for his aggressive playing style, quick reflexes, and powerful forehand. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Seiya Kishikawa has won multiple national championships in Japan and has represented his country in various international competitions. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

22) Vladimir Shishelov:

• Nationality: Russia
• Playing style: Right-handed  
• Born: June 29, 1983

Vladimir Shishelov is a professional ping-pong player. Shishelov is known for his defensive playing style, exceptional control over the ball, and tactical approach on the table. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

Vladimir Shishelov has represented Russia in various international competitions and has won multiple national championships in his country.

23) Jiang Jialiang:

• Nationality: Chinese
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: September 18, 1964

Jiang Jialiang is a   professional ping-pong player. Jiang Jialiang is considered the legend of the sport. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time.

Achievements:

He has won multiple world championships, Olympic gold medals, and other prestigious titles. It establishes him as the greatest ping-pong player of all time. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

24) Peter Karlsson:

• Nationality: Sweden
• Playing style: Right-handed
• Born: May 1, 1969

Peter Karlsson is a   professional ping-pong player. Peter Karlsson has had a successful career representing Sweden in various international competitions. He is the best Ping Pong player of all time. Karlsson is known for his versatile playing style, exceptional technique, and tactical acumen on the table. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time

Achievements

 Peter Karlsson won multiple European championships, world championships, and other prestigious titles. He established himself as the top ping-pong player from Sweden. He is included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. His passion, dedication, and sportsmanship have earned him widespread respect and admiration among players and fans alike, making him a true legend in the world of table tennis.

Closing thoughts:

A great list! We sincerely hope you enjoyed it. Ma Long is undoubtedly the greatest ping pong player of all time, but I wasn’t prepared for so many other players to hold similarly esteemed titles. they are the best Ping Pong player of all time. Particularly Wang Nan, who is without a doubt the best female ping pong player ever, has similar major tournament victories to Ma.

You should look up a few of these players on YouTube. It’s fascinating to observe how fashions have evolved over time. Even though all are included in the top 24 Table Tennis Players of All Time. They all play very differently.

FAQ’S

Who Plays Ping Pong the Best?

The world’s best ping pong player is Ma Long. He is the only athlete with two Grand Slam victories and five gold medals from the Olympics.

Who Plays Ping Pong the Best in America?

The two greatest American athletes of all time are certainly Danny See Miller and Lily Zhang. Danny, who is now retired, achieved a peak ranking of 19 while winning five United States Men’s Single Championships. They are the best Ping Pong player of all time

Lily, on the other side, has also won five US Singles Championships. She is presently ranked 25 internationally, which is her highest position, therefore she may eventually surpass Danny Similar.

What Country Produces the Best Ping Pong Players?

It’s actually China because no other nation even comes close to competing with it. There were just two international players on this list, both from Sweden and Japan.