Table tennis has long been defined by China’s overwhelming dominance — but Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto is pushing back against that narrative. In a recent interview, the 21-year-old star didn’t mince words, claiming that only Wang Chuqin is truly playing at the top level among the Chinese men’s squad.
“Fan Zhendong and Lin Shidong only have a good backhand” Harimoto said, arguing that such strengths are relatively easy to counter. His bold remarks cast doubt on the aura of invincibility surrounding China’s program, which for decades has produced world champions and Olympic gold medalists.
Harimoto also placed himself, along with Sweden’s Truls Möregårdh and Brazil’s Hugo Calderano, in the group of players capable of consistently challenging and even beating Chinese opponents. It’s a provocative statement — especially given that at the same Macau competition, Harimoto was eliminated in the very first round by world No. 48 Xue Fei, who has now beaten him twice this season.
Whether Harimoto’s words are confidence, strategy, or provocation, they shine a spotlight on a shifting psychological game at the highest level of table tennis. By questioning China’s supremacy, Harimoto reframes the conversation: domination is not guaranteed, and challengers worldwide are no longer satisfied with second place.
The real test, of course, will be on the table. Can Harimoto and his peers back up their claims with victories? One thing is clear: the fight for the future of men’s table tennis is heating up.
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