TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan’s table tennis team will compete in all five events at the Paris Olympics. The team, featuring both veterans and newcomers, aims for the highest honors in men’s team, men’s singles, women’s team, women’s singles, and mixed doubles.
Chuang Chih-yuan (莊智淵), 43, known as the "godfather" of Taiwanese table tennis, will participate in the team event at his sixth Olympics. Chuang reached the semifinals and finished fourth in the men’s singles at the 2012 London Olympics, his best Olympic result. Although he didn’t qualify for the men’s singles this year, he will compete in the men’s team event and instill confidence in the first-time Olympians.
Kao Cheng-jui (高承睿), 19, Chuang’s protégé, ranks 32nd in the world and will compete in men’s singles. "On the field, he is undoubtedly a mentor and coach to me. Off the field, our interactions sometimes feel more like those between friends. There are many things to learn from him, whether it's his spirit or his professionalism in table tennis," stated Kao.
World No. 8 Lin Yun-ju (林昀儒) is also ready for the Olympics, hoping to deliver an impressive performance. Lin, who won a mixed doubles bronze with Cheng I-ching (鄭怡靜) at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, will team up with Chen Szu-yu (陳思羽) this time. He will compete in men’s team, men’s singles, and mixed doubles, aiming for a comprehensive preparation to face global competitors.
Chen Szu-yu, participating in her fourth Olympics, plans to create offensive opportunities for Lin. "If I can defend against the balls a male opponent sends my way, Lin might have more opportunities to transition into an offensive play," said Chen.
Cheng I-ching and Chien Tung-juan (簡彤娟) will compete in women’s singles. Cheng, participating in her third Olympics, noted her increased maturity in both attitude and mindset. Chien, 22, making her Olympic debut, stated that she would imitate global players with similar techniques. "For now, I just try to play well in every match. Giving my best in each game is enough," she said with a smile.
Taiwan’s table tennis team, a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, is set to aim for Olympic glory. With experienced players like Chuang Chih-yuan, Cheng I-ching, and Chen Szu-yu, alongside rising stars such as Lin Yun-ju, Kao Cheng-jui, and Chien Tung-juan, the team is ready to showcase their skills on the global stage.