On August 10, 2026, an article by self-media "Huo Senbuluzi" was published on China's portal site Tencent News, claiming that China's absolute hegemony in table tennis has come to an end.

The article mentioned that at the recent WTT Champions Yokohama, a situation occurred where all Chinese players participating in men's singles failed to advance to the quarterfinals, and Japanese players (Tomokazu Harimoto, Miwa Harimoto) won both men's and women's singles, indicating that these results symbolized the end of China's absolute dominance in table tennis.

It also pointed out that the crushing defeat in this tournament cannot be explained solely by the absence of key players such as Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha, highlighting a noticeable delay in generational change and a lack of depth. It reported that China's superiority over its international rivals has been lost, and the psychological pressure felt by opponents has also disappeared.

Furthermore, it analyzed the factors contributing to the breakdown of China's one-superpower status, mentioning that the packed schedule of WTT international tournaments has made it difficult to conduct China's long-term intensive training camps, which used to last 90 to 120 days annually.

It also pointed out that the increasing sharing of venues and training environments in international tournaments has made it impossible to conceal techniques and tactics, leading to the rapid loss of China's structural advantage.

It then cited the adverse effects of focusing on developing "all-rounders with no weaknesses" out of fear of defeat, analyzing that players without distinct specialties are being outmaneuvered by international players who focus on their strengths.

Furthermore, it explained that the weakening of the traditional weapon "first three shots (serve, receive, 3rd ball attack)" and the lack of tactical adaptability on site are also serious issues.

The article argued that for Chinese table tennis to recover, it should adopt a challenger's mindset rather than a champion's. It stated that technological reforms should be pursued without fear of temporary defeats, and the environment needs to be reorganized under the association's leadership.

Furthermore, it concluded that fans and other "outsiders" should stop criticizing based on spiritual theories and accept the steady process of recovery. (Edited and translated by Kawajiri)