In the storied history of table tennis, youth has always symbolised potential. But Lin Shidong has turned potential into unprecedented achievement, becoming the youngest-ever men’s World No.1 following his spectacular triple crown victory at Singapore Smash 2025.
Lin’s path to the summit was sealed with a masterful performance at Singapore Smash 2025, where he showcased his exceptional versatility by capturing the triple crown. In an electrifying Men’s Singles final, he overcame compatriot Liang Jingkun with scores of 9-11, 11-8, 11-8, 6-11, 11-3, 11-2, adding to his earlier triumphs in Mixed Doubles and Men’s Doubles.
The road to World No.1 has seen several young talents make their mark through the decades. Kong Linghui emerged as one of table tennis’ youngest stars, reaching World No.1 in January 1996 at just 20 years, 2 months, and 22 days. Germany’s Timo Boll made his mark in January 2003 at 21 years, 9 months, and 24 days, followed by Wang Hao in December 2004 at 20 years, 11 months, and 16 days. Ma Long joined these ranks in January 2010 at 21 years, 2 months, and 12 days – beginning a remarkable reign that would see him hold the top ranking for a record 64 months, including an unprecedented 34 consecutive months from March 2015. More recently, Fan Zhendong continued this tradition when his victory at the 2018 Qatar Open propelled him to World No.1 in April 2018 at 21 years, 2 months, and 10 days.
Now, Lin Shidong has shattered all previous records, ascending to World No.1 at an astonishing 19 years, 9 months, and 24 days. The prodigy’s journey has been marked by precocious achievements from the very beginning. At just 10 years old, Lin became the youngest athlete on Hainan Province’s table tennis team, and a year later, he made history as the youngest player to compete in the National Championships. His selection to the national team at 17 in 2022 marked another milestone, becoming the first player from Hainan Island to achieve this honour.
That same year, the then 17-year-old dominated the ITTF World Youth Championships 2022, securing four gold medals including the U-19 singles title. His rise continued in 2023, where he claimed bronze in mixed doubles with Kuai Man at the ITTF World Championships – his first appearance at the prestigious event. After triumphing in the men’s singles at the All China Table Tennis Championships, Lin returned to the ITTF World Youth Championships 2023 to successfully defend all four of his titles.
Behind his meteoric rise lies an extraordinary work ethic. His childhood coach, Li Meng, has noted Lin’s exceptional dedication, highlighting how he consistently trained for seven to eight hours daily from an early age, significantly outworking his peers in terms of practice time. Wang Hao, speaking from his perspective as both the men’s national team head coach and a former youngest World No.1, has expressed deep admiration for Lin’s development. In his observations of the young talent, Wang has emphasised Lin’s unique abilities and how he consistently distinguishes himself among the rising generation of players.
The new World No.1’s growth has been shaped not only by his talent but also by strong family values. Growing up in Hainan’s challenging weather conditions, Lin has spoken about his father’s unwavering dedication, taking him to practice through rain and typhoons, while instilling in him the importance of staying humble regardless of success. As Lin Shidong writes his name into the history books, his achievement signals an exciting new chapter in table tennis, where youth and excellence combine to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the sport.
