China’s men’s table tennis team has suffered another setback, with a fourth player eliminated, leaving Wang Chuqin as the lone remaining contender. As pressure mounts, many are asking whether the team urgently needs Fan Zhendong to return ahead of the World Championships.

At the 2026 ITTF Men’s World Cup in Macau, 19-year-old Wen Ruibo was defeated 1–4 by Lin Yun-Ju in the Round of 16, leaving China with only Wang Chuqin still in contention.

Overall performance

Four out of five Chinese players have already been eliminated, with three exiting in the group stage.

Match analysis

Lin’s technical precision and consistency proved decisive. Wen showed promise but lacked experience in key moments.

Structural concern

With Ma Long retired and Fan Zhendong absent, Wang Chuqin is currently carrying the team alone.

Outlook

Fan’s potential return could be crucial, but long-term development and talent pipeline issues remain central concerns.