The Long goodbye

Global favorite

On Friday night, following the Chinese women's table tennis team's semifinal victory, each player received a pin from Japanese former table tennis star, now a TV reporter, Kasumi Ishikawa. Ishikawa also presented an additional pin to Chen Meng, asking her to deliver it to her favorite player, Ma.

After the Chinese women's team secured the title on Saturday, Ma made a surprise appearance in the mixed zone, where he and Ishikawa exchanged pins.

Ishikawa, a devoted fan of Ma, had previously expressed in interviews her admiration for him, highlighting her frequent viewership of his matches and her respect for his combination of strength and gentleness.

Universally acknowledged as the table tennis GOAT (greatest of all time), Ma's impressive presence and humble demeanor have garnered widespread admiration and respect from players around the world.

When Ma was initially left off the Chinese team's singles roster for the Paris Olympics in May, German table tennis star Dimitrij Ovtcharov posted a heartfelt message on Weibo, tagging Ma, expressing his sadness at the decision: "Life always has its regrets! I'm sorry to hear you won't be competing in singles at the Paris Olympics. You are a great rival! Here's to our youth and effort! Sending my best wishes! I still look forward to facing you in Paris!"

In the Olympic Village, Ma has become a popular figure, with athletes frequently seeking photos with him and sharing them on social media. His autograph is among the most coveted.

In the mixed zone during the Games, Ma has been a magnet for reporters from around the globe. Some use translation apps, while others enlist volunteers for assistance.

American journalists inquired about how Ma would introduce himself to an American audience, French reporters asked for his impression of the home team and Swedish reporters were curious about his views on China's rival for the gold.