China's National Table Tennis Team Heads to US for Grand Slam with Special Significance

event · 2026-06-23

China's National Table Tennis Team Heads to US for Grand Slam with Special Significance

China’s National Table Tennis Team Heads to US for Grand Slam with Special Significance

The WTT US Grand Slam 2026 is set to take place from June 26 to July 5, 2026, at the Ontario Convention Center in Los Angeles, California. The event will bring together the world’s top athletes to compete for 2000 world ranking points. The Chinese team is sending a full-strength lineup, with the following roster:

Men’s Singles

Women’s Singles

Men’s Doubles

Women’s Doubles

Mixed Doubles

Wang Chuqin, the reigning men’s singles champion from last year’s inaugural US Grand Slam, shared his thoughts on returning to the US: “Last year was my first time playing a Grand Slam in the US, and everything felt new. I gave it my all on the court. This year, coming to Los Angeles, the host city of the 2028 Olympics, adds a special significance for all players. After resting and preparing following the World Table Tennis Championships in London, I hope to use this event to find my competition rhythm and assess my recent training. As for the results, I won’t think too much; I’ll focus on playing each point to the best of my ability.”

Wang Manyu, who will partner with Kuai Man in the women’s doubles, emphasized their teamwork: “We’ll strive together and enjoy the competition. In doubles, communication and trust are crucial. No matter the challenges, we’ll tackle each point and stay in close contact on and off the court. For this tournament, whether in singles or doubles, we’ll approach each opponent with a calm mindset and use it as a chance to evaluate our training since the World Championships.”

Chen Yi, who finished as the runner-up in last year’s US Grand Slam, highlighted the special memories of the US venue: “The US venue holds a special place for me. Last year, I achieved a good result here, which boosted my confidence. But this year has had its ups and downs, showing me my weaknesses. With a new city and venue, I’ll focus on adapting to the competition pace, staying grounded, and keeping a level head. Regardless of the challenges, I’ll see myself as a challenger and concentrate on each ball, ensuring I have no regrets.”

Two Chinese players will compete in mixed doubles with American partners as wild cards. Qin Yuxuan, partnering with American player Boasman Boas, expressed her excitement: “I’m thrilled to team up with Boasman Boas for the mixed doubles at the US Grand Slam. This cross-association partnership allows us to experience different training philosophies and cultural backgrounds, showcasing genuine and positive exchanges between young athletes. We can learn a lot from each other, both on and off the court. Such collaborations help young athletes improve their skills and learn respect, communication, and friendship. I hope we can work together to present an uplifting spirit and let everyone feel the openness, inclusiveness, and unity of table tennis.”

Xue Fei, who will partner with American player Kanak Jaha in the men’s doubles, shared his enthusiasm: “I’m excited for the opportunity to team up with Kanak Jaha for the men’s doubles. I believe it will be a valuable experience. Sports are a vital platform for exchange and friendship. As a young athlete, I’m honored to continue the sports exchange between our countries through this transnational partnership. I hope we can demonstrate good sportsmanship and teamwork, deliver exciting matches for the fans, and inspire more young people with the positive power of sports.”

Sun Yingsha, beloved by young fans, emphasized the importance of inspiring more youth to love table tennis: “I’m delighted to return to the US for the Grand Slam and grateful for the support and attention from American fans and the Chinese community. This year marks the 55th anniversary of Ping Pong Diplomacy between China and the US. Sports transcend borders, and many young Chinese Americans have learned about Chinese culture and the national team through table tennis, which I find particularly meaningful. I hope more young people will pick up a racket and experience the sport’s spirit of striving, as well as the health, confidence, and friendships it brings. I look forward to more opportunities to meet and connect with everyone in the future.”

The US Grand Slam 2026 features men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. The first two days (June 26-27) will host the qualifying rounds for singles, with the main draw starting on June 28. The mixed doubles final will be held on July 3, followed by the doubles finals on July 4, and the singles finals on July 5. Each event’s champions will earn 2000 world ranking points.

Content Source: WTT World Table Tennis

Visit our video channel to unlock more exciting moments in the world of table tennis —