Ma Long etched his name in Olympic history on Friday, becoming the Chinese athlete with the most gold medals ever after guiding China to victory in the men’s table tennis team final at the Paris Games. China, a powerhouse in the sport, defeated Sweden to claim their fifth consecutive Olympic gold in the team event. Ma’s contribution secured his sixth Olympic gold medal, solidifying his position as the most decorated table tennis Olympian.
The 35-year-old Ma has consistently brought home at least one gold medal in every Summer Games since London 2012. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “These past 12 years have been a journey filled with ups and downs, and I feel incredibly fortunate. I’ve played many different roles in each Olympics.” He continued, “After Tokyo I didn’t expect to be here in Paris, but these three years have helped me grow mentally and technically. This gold medal is a great way to conclude my Olympic journey.”
Ma is the sole table tennis player to have won four gold medals in the team event, achieving this feat in Paris, Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, and London. He added two more golds in singles, winning in Tokyo and Rio. While he did not participate in the singles tournament in Paris, he emphasized that his Olympic career was coming to an end but not his competitive spirit. “You might still see me on the international table tennis stage in the future,” he stated.
China’s dominance in table tennis was further highlighted by their clean sweep of the four Olympic gold medals awarded so far in Paris. They secured victories in both men’s and women’s singles tournaments, as well as the mixed doubles event. The women’s team final, with China facing Japan, is scheduled for Saturday. China’s impressive track record in the sport boasts 36 gold medals out of 41 since its inclusion in the Olympic program at Seoul in 1988.
Meanwhile, France, in a thrilling match against Japan, secured their first-ever medal in the men’s team event, taking home the bronze. Felix Lebrun, a 17-year-old French player, expressed his elation. “It was incredible,” he said. “It was a dream for all three of us to live it together after an incredible match. These were unforgettable emotions, and we will remember this for a long time. It is a magical moment, and we’re delighted to share it with the team and the public.”
