Fang Bo to Compete for Kazakhstan in Table Tennis Events
Fang Bo's New Chapter in Table Tennis
File image of the Chinese Veteran Fang Bo (Photo: X)
Beijing, April 20: Fang Bo, a distinguished former member of the Chinese men's table tennis squad, has declared his intention to represent Kazakhstan in upcoming competitions, although he will not participate in the Olympics, World Championships, or World Cup.
On the Chinese social media platform Weibo, Fang stated, "I am announcing my return and will compete for Kazakhstan. I have formed a partnership with Nomad Table Tennis Academy and aim to participate in World Table Tennis events starting in June."
He clarified, "I still retain my Chinese nationality and will not take part in the three major tournaments."
At 34 years old, Fang played a pivotal role in China's triumph at the 2015 Team World Cup and the 2016 World Team Championships. He reached the finals of the 2015 World Championships in Suzhou, where he was defeated by his teammate Ma Long, according to reports.
Fang had previously announced his retirement from the Chinese team in 2021, expressing, "My passion for table tennis is what drives my return. I want to push my limits once more."
Known for his right-handed shakehand grip, Fang Bo made a significant impact by defeating second-seeded Xu Xin and defending champion Zhang Jike to reach the men's singles final at the World Championships.
In 2017, he teamed up with Germany's Petrissa Solja to secure a bronze medal in the mixed doubles category at the World Championships held in Düsseldorf. Additionally, he earned a silver medal in doubles and a bronze in mixed doubles at the 2017 Asian Championship in Wuxi. Over his career, Fang has amassed six medals, including three golds in the ITTF World Tour during 2013, 2015, and 2017.
Fang Bo joined the Chinese national table tennis team in 2009 and made history by winning all four team and individual titles at the 2009 World Junior Championships, becoming the first youth player in China to achieve this milestone.