On Sunday in Las Vegas, table tennis players from China and the U.S. gathered to celebrate the 54th anniversary of "Ping-Pong diplomacy," showcasing how a simple paddle and ball can spark lasting international bonds.
The event—co-hosted by the Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA) and USA Table Tennis (USATT), with backing from the Chinese Consulate General in San Francisco and the Nevada U.S.-China Cultural Association—brought world champions, local enthusiasts, and rising talents together for open clinics, friendly matches, and hands-on coaching.
Many of China’s top players, fresh from the WTT U.S. Smash tournament in early July, swapped techniques with American counterparts. Young fans crowded the tables, locked in practice rallies with their heroes, and embraced the spirit of cross-cultural teamwork.
"Ping-Pong diplomacy reminds us how powerful people-to-people connections can be," said Zhang Jianmin, Chinese Consul General in San Francisco. He added that "engagement and communication hold the key to improving mutual understanding," and that "win-win cooperation is the right path to common development."
CTTA president and two-time Olympic gold medalist Wang Liqin underscored the organization’s commitment to youth exchanges. "We sincerely invite young friends from the United States to visit China for training camps and friendly games," he said, envisioning deeper ties through sport.
USATT CEO Virginia Sung highlighted table tennis as a universal language: "Sport speaks across cultures, reminding us that even the smallest ball can carry the weight of friendship and understanding."
More than half a century after ping-pong tables became diplomatic meeting spots, today’s players continue to rally for goodwill—one thrilling exchange at a time.
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Chinese, U.S. athletes mark 54th anniversary of 'Ping-Pong diplomacy'
cgtn.com
