Discover Ma Long’s age, net worth, nationality and all personal life details

Discover Ma Long’s age, net worth, nationality and all personal life details

Kenneth Mwenda
updated at November 26, 2023 at 5:38 AM

Ma Long’s age often comes up when discussing his incredible journey in table tennis. As a player whose career spans over two decades, he has become a symbol of excellence and longevity in the sport. Ma Long’s story is not just about the years he has spent in the sport but also about the moments that have defined him as one of the greatest players in the history of table tennis.

 How old is Ma Long?
Ma Long during the 19th Asian Games between China and Vietnam at Gongshu Canal Sports Park Gymnasium on September 22, 2023, in Hangzhou, China. Photo: Zhizhao Wu (modified by author)
Source: Getty Images

In this exploration of Ma Long’s life and career, we dive into the chapters that have defined him not just as a player but as an icon in the world of table tennis. His story is a blend of professional triumphs, intense rivalries, and a personal life that adds depth to his character as a sports legend.

Profile summary

Name

Ma Long

Date of birth

October 20, 1988

Place of birth

Anshan, Liaoning, China

Nationality

Chinese

Nicknames

“The Dragon”, “The Dictator”

Career start

Joined the Chinese National Table Tennis team in 2003

Achievements

Double Grand Slam winner (Olympic, World Championships, World Cup golds), Olympic Gold Medallist in Men’s Singles (2016, 2020), World Championships Gold Medallist in Men’s Singles (2015, 2017, 2019)

World ranking

Reached No. 1 for a total of 64 months, including 34 consecutive months from March 2015

Famous rivalries

Hao, Zhang Jike, Fan Zhendong

Wife

Xia Lu

Net worth

Around $20 million

Ma Long’s Age

He is 35 years old (as of November 2023). Born on October 20, 1988, in Anshan, Liaoning, China, Ma Long has become the epitome of excellence in table tennis.

His journey in the sport began at a tender age, and by the age of 17, he was already making waves internationally. Known for his incredible skill and unshakable mental strength, Ma Long’s age is not just a number but a testament to his enduring prowess in a highly competitive sport.

Ma Long’s net worth

Estimated at around $20 million, his wealth is not solely from his victories and titles. Endorsements and brand deals contribute significantly to his financial portfolio, reflecting his global table tennis star status. His earning power is a beacon for aspiring players, showing the lucrative potential of reaching the top in this dynamic sport.

Who are Ma Long’s rivals?

Ma Long's net worth
Ma Long of China in action against Nguyen Anh Tu of Vietnam during the 19th Asian Games at Gongshu Canal Sports Park Gymnasium on September 22, 2023, in Hangzhou, China. Photo: Zhizhao Wu
Source: Getty Images

Ma Long’s path to becoming the greatest table tennis player of all time was not without obstacles. His early career was marked by intense rivalries, notably with Hao and Zhang Jike, who pushed him to his limits.

Hao, with his traditional Chinese penholder grip, was a formidable opponent. He defeated Ma in three consecutive World Championships (2009, 2011, and 2013).

However, Ma’s persistence paid off as he overcame Hao later in their careers. Zhang Jike’s rise to fame with a Grand Slam victory in just 445 days was another challenge that Ma faced and overcame.

Ma Long vs Fan Zhendong

The rivalry between Ma Long and Fan Zhendong, his youngest rival, is one of the most captivating in table tennis history. Fan Zhendong is currently ranked as the world’s number 1 player.

He has faced Ma Long in several high-stakes matches. These encounters, often marked by intense competition and high-level play, have solidified Ma Long’s status as a legend in the sport.

What equipment does Ma Long use?

For table tennis enthusiasts, Ma Long’s equipment is a topic of great fascination. Key to his arsenal is "Ma Long's rubber", which plays a significant role in his playing style.

His choice of racket reflects his playing style, emphasizing control, spin, and power. Known for his precise and powerful playing style, Ma Long uses a DHS Hurricane Long 5 (DHS W968) blade with DHS Hurricane 3 National.

Ma Long’s ranking

Ma Long vs Fan Zhendong
Fan Zhendong (L) and Ma Long (R) of China during the 19th Asian Games at Gongshu Canal Sports Park Gymnasium on September 22, 2023, in Hangzhou, China. Photo: Zhizhao Wu
Source: Getty Images

Ma Long’s ranking in the world of table tennis has been a subject of awe. He is ranked at number three (as of November 2023).

Frequently occupying the number 1 spot, his consistent performance at international competitions is a testament to his enduring skill and dedication. His ability to maintain a top position in the face of fierce competition speaks volumes about his mastery of the game and his status as a legend in the sport.

Ma Long’s family

Beyond the table, Ma Long is a family man. Ma Long’s wife, Xia Lu, has been a pillar in his personal life. The couple’s marriage in 2017 and the birth of Ma Long’s son have added a new dimension to his life, balancing the intensity of professional play with the warmth of a loving family.

Ma Long’s accomplishments and awards

Discussing Ma Long’s accomplishments and awards is like taking a tour through the hall of fame of table tennis. His list of achievements and legacy is extensive, with multiple World Championships, Olympic gold medals, and countless other international titles.

At the age of 17, Ma Long set a record as the youngest World Senior Champion ever. He was part of the victorious Chinese men's team at the 2006 World Team Championships in Bremen, where they clinched gold. During that year, Ma Long also triumphed in both the Asian and World Junior Championships.

Renowned as the all-time best in table tennis, Ma Long uniquely achieved a Double Grand Slam, winning Olympic gold in men’s singles in 2016 and Tokyo 2020, a first for any male player. His unparalleled dominance is also evident from his 64-month tenure as world number one, including a 34-month unbroken stretch beginning in March 2015, the longest for a male player in table tennis history.

Beyond these, he clinched the World Championships in men’s singles in 2015, 2017, and 2019. His extraordinary achievements led to his nicknames “The Dictator” and “The Dragon” by the International Table Tennis Federation, with the latter reflecting his Chinese zodiac sign. Since 2014, he has also led as the captain of the Chinese national men’s table tennis team.

Is Ma Long retiring?

Ma Long's ranking
Ma Long of China during the WTT Singapore Smash at the OCBC Arena on March 16, 2023, in Singapore. Photo: Yong Teck Lim
Source: Getty Images

Table tennis icon Ma Long, after his team’s triumph at the Asian Games in Hangzhou in September 2023, hinted at this being his final appearance at the event. The five-time Olympic champion and winner of twelve world championship golds expressed his satisfaction in contributing to the team’s success.

Ma, reflecting on his future, mentioned that he would continue training but acknowledged a shift in his approach, suggesting that this Asian Games could be his last. Regarding the Paris Olympics, Ma remains undecided, stating that it is too early to consider defending his title there.

Ma Long is not just a table tennis player; he is an embodiment of excellence, a beacon for aspiring athletes, and a role model for sportsmanship and dedication. His journey from a young age to a table tennis legend is a story of hard work, determination, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

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Authors
Kenneth Mwenda photo
Kenneth Mwenda
Kenneth Mwenda is a business and sports writer with over five years of experience. At Sportsbrief, he contributes to writing biographies and listicles.