A commemorative gala dinner marked the 53rd anniversary of China-U.S. Ping Pong Diplomacy and the 45th anniversary of China-U.S. diplomatic relations in Los Angeles, featuring exhibition matches between Chinese stars Ma Long and Liu Shiwen against the U.S. team.

In April 1971, nine players from the U.S. Table Tennis team took a historic trip to China, becoming the first delegation of Americans to visit China in decades. Their trip was the beginning of what became known as Ping-Pong Diplomacy, and helped lay the groundwork for the establishment of official diplomatic relations between China and the United States. The legacy also led to improved people-to-people understanding and cultural exchanges between the two countries.

The evening began with thrilling exhibition matches, followed by a celebration that brought together key figures from the table tennis community, diplomatic corps, and government officials, highlighting the enduring legacy of sport in international relations.

ITTF President Petra Sörling emphasised table tenniss unique role in fostering international understanding, This evening, we celebrate the unique power of table tennisa sport that transcends borders, bridges divides, and builds lasting connections. It was through the simplicity of a small white ball that our two nations turned a new page in history, fostering understanding and friendship.

Olympic champion Ma Long reflected on the historic significance of the sport: Table tennis is not only a sport, but also a bridge, which connects different cultures and people. I have always believed that the power of sport transcends national boundaries, allowing us to respect each other in competition and deepen understanding in communication.

Liu Shiwen shared similar sentiments about the sports diplomatic role: As an athlete, I know the power of sport to transcend borders and cultures to bring understanding, trust and friendship. Throughout my career, I have forged deep friendships with athletes and fans around the world as we learn from each other and progress together.

The gala included speeches from distinguished guests including Ambassador Shaochun Guo, Consul General of the Chinese Consulate in Los Angeles, Gene Sykes, Chair of the U.S. Olympic Committee, and Virginia Sung, CEO of USA Table Tennis. A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the China-U.S. Ping Pong Diplomacy Contribution Awards to various individuals and organisations who have significantly contributed to the sports diplomatic legacy.

The celebration took on additional significance given its location in Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. President Sörling noted that following the success of the ITTF World Championships Finals 2021 in Houston and with World Table Tennis bringing its highest-tier WTT Smash event to Las Vegas next year, the stage is set for table tennis to continue growing in North America.

The evening concluded with a jersey exchange between the Chinese and U.S. Table Tennis teams, symbolising the ongoing friendship and cooperation between the two nations through sport, followed by cultural performances featuring a quartet.