Fiji Eliminated, Ukraine Advances to Playoffs as 73-Year-Old Competes at Table Tennis Worlds

Wang Qi's Campaign at the 2026 World Table Tennis Championships

According to Главком: At the 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships held in London, 73-year-old Wang Qi represented Fiji. Despite his extensive background in the sport, he lost both of his matches, leading to Fiji's elimination in the group stage. Ukraine, on the other hand, successfully advanced to the playoffs.

Born in China, Wang Qi first picked up a paddle at age seven. His playing career was interrupted by the Cultural Revolution. Later, he played a key role in training Ma Lin, a two-time Olympic champion. In 2001, Wang Qi and his family relocated to Fiji, where he began coaching the national team in 2002. The Fijian government granted him special citizenship ahead of the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Match Results

In London, Wang Qi faced a player from Cameroon and lost 3-11, 3-11, 2-11. In his second match, he fell to a Canadian opponent 3-11, 1-11, 0-11. Fiji exited the group stage after losses to Canada, Cameroon, and Belgium.

Wang Qi's participation drew attention due to his age and deep experience in the sport, though the outcomes fell short of expectations. Supporting young athletes and developing table tennis in Fiji remain priorities for the national federation. Ukraine's strong performance, in contrast, highlights the country's rising standard in table tennis, potentially opening new doors for its athletes on the international stage.