Ping Pong Recap, Plot, Synopsis
Ping Pong Synopsis
Xu Tan is a shy person who, under the influence of his ping-pong-loving grandfather, started to learn ping-pong to strengthen his body.
Later, when he was facing the prospect of leaving ping-pong, he was discovered by the talent scout.
Through strict technical, physical and psychological guidance, he eventually overcame all kinds of hardships and pressure to become the most comprehensive and reliable absolute starter of the team.
Yu Kenan, a brutal and unruly player, learned ping-pong with his father, a former national ping-pong player, and aspired to become a world champion from a young age.
They grew up together, experiencing and witnessing a period in the history of Chinese ping-pong, and eventually standing at opposite ends of the highest ping-pong table in the world for the sake of national honor and life’s ambitions.
Ping Pong Recap
Episode 1 Recap
The 53rd Suzhou World Ping-Pong Tournament men's singles final captivated a full stadium, with commentators describing the intense match between China national team captain Xu Tan and the prodigious Grand Slam winner Yu Kenan. The stakes were high, as victory promised not only the world champion title but also qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
Xu Tan, known as the "National Ping-Pong Diviner" for his strategic mind and deep understanding of his opponents, especially Yu Kenan, expertly attacked Yu Kenan's backhand with a series of backhand flicks, backhand loops, and forehand loops. He secured a tough win in the fifth game, despite Yu Kenan being hampered by a shoulder injury, which forced him to switch to using his forehand mid-match.
Coaches Lei Cheng and Teng Biao observed the game, with Lei Cheng reflecting that success in table tennis, like chess, hinges on careful planning, and victory belongs to those who put in more effort. The commentators noted the rare direct confrontation between these two national teammates, whose paths had previously always diverged in official competitions. As the sixth game progressed with Yu Kenan leading 3-2, Xu Tan’s performance unexpectedly faltered.
The commentators quickly observed that an old knee injury had relapsed, severely impacting his play. Despite the pain, Xu Tan pushed through, even predicting Yu Kenan’s return to execute a lightning flick, winning a crucial point to reach match point at 10-9. However, during the decisive final rally, a powerful backhand drive from Yu Kenan caused Xu Tan's knee to twist sharply, sending him to the ground in agony.
Coach Fang Yue immediately called for a ten-minute medical suspension, warning Xu Tan that further injury could permanently end his career. Fang Yue urged him to withdraw, emphasizing that resting now would preserve his future opportunities for Olympic Games, World Cups, Grand Slams, and even future World Ping-Pong Tournaments, all of which he could still win. But Xu Tan, having awaited this official match against Yu Kenan for ten years, declared his unwavering desire to play.
When Fang Yue asked why he played if he didn't care about Grand Slams, Xu Tan asserted, "Because I like it. Very much." As the medical suspension neared its end and Fang Yue submitted a withdrawal application form to the committee, Xu Tan, propelled by his deep passion, walked back onto the court. The narrative then shifts back ten years to 2004, when a sixteen-year-old Xu Tan was a struggling member of the Beijing Ping-Pong Training Team.
He frequently lost matches, often being mocked by teammates like Su Chang, Su Shun, and Lu Xiao Bei for his perceived lack of skill. His mother, Lin Di, distressed by his stagnant progress, arrived at the training center to insist he quit the team and return to Liaoning to focus on academics.
She cited daunting statistics about the slim odds of becoming a champion, arguing that if he couldn't be "that one in fifteen million," he would just be "the denominator." Xu Tan reluctantly signed the retirement form, though his heart clung to his dream, evidenced by his personal notebook titled "The first world championship of Tan Tan." His mother, lacking confidence in his future, even feigned chest pain to pressure him.
Shortly after Xu Tan signed his withdrawal form, the list for Regional Training was announced. To the surprise and indignation of his teammates, Xu Tan, despite his poor performance and impending departure, was selected for one of the three coveted spots, a recommendation secured by his coach, Lei Cheng, who valued potential beyond current results. A heated argument erupted, with teammates accusing Xu Tan of favoritism, asking if he got the spot "just because of Coach Lei."
Lei Lei, Lei Cheng’s spirited daughter and Xu Tan’s friend, dramatically intervened by spraying the fighting teammates with a fire extinguisher, urging Xu Tan to stand up for himself. Upon hearing Xu Tan's plan to retire the day after tomorrow, Lei Lei, ever the free spirit, found it a "good thing," contrasting it with her own father's singular devotion to ping-pong. She vowed to make his last day in Beijing unforgettable.
Later, she dragged Xu Tan to a high school singing competition, where she performed a surprise act, defying the rules and getting pulled off stage by security, with Xu Tan instinctively shielding her. Lei Lei’s conviction in living without regret, doing what one loves, resonated deeply with Xu Tan, who confessed to feeling "empty" about quitting.
He shared that he initially took up ping-pong on his grandfather's advice to manage childhood asthma, but eventually grew to love the sport and remembered his grandfather's hopes. Lei Lei encouraged him to follow his heart, telling him he could win a world championship and prove everyone wrong.
The next day, as Xu Tan was on a bus heading home to Liaoning with his parents, his father discreetly revealed that his mother's illness was faked, assuring Xu Tan of his unconditional support and giving him a ping-pong ball. Remembering Lei Lei’s encouraging words and his grandfather’s expectations, Xu Tan made a decisive choice. Despite his mother's protests, Xu Tan leaped off the departing bus, shouting a promise to the receding vehicle: "Mom! I want to win world championships!"
Lei Cheng, acknowledging the effort he put into securing Xu Tan’s Regional Training spot, imparted a final message: Xu Tan was now on his own. Xu Tan arrived at the Xiamen Regional Training Center, brimming with renewed purpose. He was met by an elder staff member who chided him for his lateness.
Upon checking his room assignment, 203, which he noticed was also Yu Kenan's, he briefly spoke with his girlfriend on the phone, reassuring her about his roommates and the center's policy of collecting cell phones. Immediately after, Lei Lei called him, and he informed her of his arrival in Xiamen and the phone policy.
Coach Teng Biao, a coach for the second national team, appeared and reinforced the strict rules regarding phone usage and outside excursions, explaining the dormitory structure and introducing the other coaches, Mr. Sun and Mr. Lin. Xu Tan’s new roommates introduced themselves, including Ju Lai Ti (from Xinjiang), Na Seng (from Tibet), He Jin Bao (from Lanzhou), Guo Yuan, and Bo Bo (both from Shanghai). Guo Yuan implied Xu Tan was an obscure 18th-tier player from Beijing.
Soon after, a commotion erupted outside. Yu Kenan, Xu Tan’s fated rival and a renowned genius player, was being physically compelled into the training center by his father. Yu Kenan vehemently resisted, declaring his disdain for Regional Training and his intent to return home, defiantly breaking a pen while signing the attendance form. Coach Teng Biao, in front of the assembled trainees, issued a stern warning about discipline and photographic memory for any future infractions.
A "Little Drama" segment detailed the prestige of Regional Training, which gathers top players from across the country and offers a pathway to the national team through intensive physical and mental development, concluding that Xu Tan was now a lucky recipient of this crucial "ticket." Xu Tan and Yu Kenan found themselves assigned to the same room, setting the stage for their intertwined journeys.
Episode 2 Recap
Yu Ge attempted to trick Yu Kenan into attending the Regional Training by falsely claiming it was a competition. Yu Kenan fiercely resisted, believing his father was merely trying to fulfill his own unachieved dream of becoming a world champion by controlling his son's life. He defiantly declared he no longer wanted to play ping-pong.
Despite Yu Kenan's protests that he could make the national team on his own merits, Yu Ge forced him to register, signing on his behalf after Yu Kenan refused. Yu Kenan lashed out in anger, kicking the sign. Coach Teng Biao intervened, chastising Yu Kenan for his destructive behavior.
Teng Biao, an old friend of Yu Ge, acknowledged Yu Kenan's exceptional talent, noting he had joined the Shanghai team at 11 and won the Eight Cup twice at 12, along with all national youth championships. However, he also highlighted Yu Kenan's problematic history, which included being disciplined from the Second team and sent back to the provincial team for fighting, due to his inherent pride and impetuous playing style.
While Yu Ge vehemently defended his son, insisting Yu Kenan would become a world champion, Teng Biao cautioned that Yu Kenan's volatile temperament made him a "time bomb" who might struggle to achieve greatness. Yu Kenan later received a phone call from his mother, who was worried about his arrival at the training camp. He vented his frustration about being deceived, emphasizing his unwillingness to participate in the regional training.
His mother, understanding Yu Ge's demanding nature, explained that his father only wanted him to return to the national team. Annoyed, Yu Kenan ended the call. In the dorm, other players whispered about Yu Kenan's past, noting his incredible talent but also the incident where he was dismissed from the Second team for assaulting a teammate. That night, Yu Kenan attempted to escape the training camp by scaling the perimeter wall. Coach Teng Biao intercepted him, asking his destination.
Yu Kenan declared his intention to return to Shanghai, insisting he had his own means, despite Teng Biao's observation that the last boat had already departed. Teng Biao provoked him, asking if he was afraid of losing, to which Yu Kenan retorted that he could rejoin the national team through matches, not through this training. Teng Biao warned that running away would signify complete surrender, either from a lack of ability or from fear.
As Yu Kenan successfully scaled the wall, Teng Biao revealed a critical detail: the training center was built on a hillside, with the exterior higher than the interior, making re-entry or further escape extremely difficult. He also warned of the biting sea wind and snakes in the woods. Yu Kenan struggled on the other side, calling out to Teng Biao, but received no response, left to find his way back alone in the cold night.
The next morning, as Xu Tan and his dorm mates ate breakfast, they speculated that Yu Kenan, given his rebellious actions the previous night, would not show up for training. Regional training officially commenced with coaches Zheng Hao and Teng Biao addressing the assembled players. Zheng Hao stressed that as elite players from their respective provincial teams, they must approach the training with utmost dedication, urging them to put in "three days' worth of work" every day.
He sternly warned against complacency, arrogance, and indiscipline, stating that such behavior would lead to the immediate termination of their training. Teng Biao then outlined the selection process: players were divided into seven groups based on past performance. After three days, an initial intragroup elimination would determine placement into first and second training echelons.
He also revealed the "tournament-based" system for the final day, where the top three provincial players would challenge the bottom three players from the National Second Team for a coveted spot in the national team. He Jin Bao elaborated to Xu Tan that this was, in essence, an "elimination" round where losing meant packing up and going home. Both Xu Tan and He Jin Bao found themselves assigned to Group 7.
He Jin Bao commented that this was an unofficial rule, where "old, young, and weak players" were typically placed. Xu Tan, however, despite acknowledging his past retirement and his recommissioned status, affirmed his commitment to training diligently. Later that morning, Yu Kenan, still wearing his national team uniform, approached Teng Biao, formally requesting to withdraw from the regional training.
Teng Biao, after confirming Yu Kenan's resolve, had him sign the withdrawal form, advising him to submit it to Mr Cui at the reception office. He also suggested Yu Kenan remove his national team uniform, as it was no longer appropriate, to which Yu Kenan retorted that he didn't care for it.
With genuine concern, Teng Biao urged Yu Kenan to deeply consider his decision, reminding him not to live under his father's shadow or to start and abandon ping-pong solely for his father's sake. He then gave Yu Kenan his personal file, telling him to keep it for his family to review. As Yu Kenan departed, he encountered Fu Jingchun, a former friend and fellow 'genius,' who regarded Yu Kenan as his only rival and suggested they play some matches.
Yu Kenan arrogantly retorted, questioning if Fu Jingchun "deserved" to play him. Xu Tan also tried to engage Yu Kenan, recalling their childhood encounter, but Yu Kenan coldly responded that he didn't remember all the people he'd beaten. On the way home, Yu Kenan reviewed his personal file, which contained details of his journey in ping-pong.
This triggered a powerful flashback to his childhood when, watching his father, a young Yu Kenan had passionately declared he would win a world champion title for him, recalling his father's moved and gratified expression. This memory spurred Yu Kenan to immediately return to the regional training camp. He found Teng Biao and earnestly apologized, pleading for another chance to participate in the training, stating his ultimate goal was to become a world champion.
Teng Biao, after some initial skepticism about his sincerity, laid down three strict conditions: no fighting, no tardiness, and he absolutely must not lose a single game throughout the training, otherwise he would be sent back to the provincial team. Yu Kenan readily accepted these terms, confidently stating the "no losing" rule was "easy."
Teng Biao then retrieved Yu Kenan's luggage (which his father had discarded) and offered him a warm drink, advising him to avoid falling ill after his night out in the cold. Back in the dorm, Yu Kenan's return didn't go unnoticed. He Jin Bao, among others, continued to gossip about Yu Kenan's arrogant nature and his past, recounting how Yu Kenan was disciplined from the national team for assaulting a teammate.
Later, on the first day of training, He Jin Bao, in a playful mood, pretended to be a "Xiaotuyu TV" reporter, interviewing Xu Tan and then attempting to interview Yu Kenan. They were caught by National Team Head Coach Mo Hongwei. Coach Mo gathered all the players, reminding them of the privilege of being among the 77 elite players in China with access to top-tier facilities and training. He sternly warned them to choose between serious training or going home.
He then singled out the occupants of Room 203, including Xu Tan and He Jin Bao, for disrupting training, ordering them to perform five frog hops. Yu Kenan objected, asserting he did not participate and was, in fact, bothered by their antics. Xu Tan confirmed Yu Kenan's account. However, Mo Hongwei emphasized that the national team functions as a unified entity, where victories and defeats are shared.
As a "reward" for Yu Kenan's dedication to training, Mo Hongwei appointed him as the dorm leader, granting him authority to manage his roommates. Yu Kenan grudgingly accepted this new role. Mo Hongwei, introducing himself as the Head Coach of the national team who traveled from Beijing to observe, announced the week's training strategy: "replace the training with matches."
Under this system, winners earn points towards promotion and relegation, while losers must complete an additional set of multi-ball training for every point they concede. He then tasked Yu Kenan with closely supervising his roommates.
Episode 3 Recap
Su Chang continued to dominate in the provincial team, with Xu Tan consistently falling behind him. Their long-standing rivalry saw Xu Tan lose their latest training match with a score of eleven to four, a predictable outcome. As was his custom, Xu Tan diligently recorded the match results in his ever-present notebook, a practice that other teammates often dismissed as a waste of time.
Having lost seven points, Xu Tan was assigned seven additional sets of multi-ball training, which requires a coach to continuously feed balls of different spins and placements to the player to improve various techniques. Xu Tan, despite his fatigue, felt a renewed surge of energy watching Yu Kenan train effortlessly nearby, pushing himself to break his own limits.
He realized that the regional training camp was vastly different from the Beijing team, filled with formidable opponents, each with unique skills, constantly improving. He acknowledged his own shortcomings in physical fitness and natural talent, knowing that relentless practice was his only path to improvement. With a newfound determination, he set a higher goal: to meticulously observe and relentlessly pursue Yu Kenan's progress.
Unlike Yu Kenan, who aggressively strove to be the first to complete training, sometimes to the point where his hands trembled too much to hold chopsticks at mealtime, Xu Tan was methodical, taking each step with care, focusing on quality and precision over speed in every shot. One morning, Xu Tan and two of his roommates were fifteen minutes late for training. Coach Zheng Hao punished them with a 10,000-meter run after practice.
Yu Kenan, as the dorm leader, was also ordered to run, much to his chagrin. Xu Tan, feeling guilty for dragging Yu Kenan into trouble, tried to apologize, but Yu Kenan, nicknamed "Champion Yu" by another teammate, simply ignored him. Lin Hao Zhi, a consistently underperforming player, accumulated sixty-five sets of multi-ball training. Xu Tan spent an entire morning helping him, growing concerned as Lin Hao Zhi's hands shook from exhaustion.
Lin Hao Zhi, finally gathering courage, approached Coach Zheng Hao to request a break for himself and Xu Tan. Coach Zheng Hao then offered Lin Hao Zhi a condition for rest: win a match against Yu Kenan. Predictably, Yu Kenan showed no mercy, defeating Lin Hao Zhi with a "shaved head" (winning 11-0), causing Lin Hao Zhi to flee in distress despite the coach's reprimands.
He Jin Bao criticized Yu Kenan for his lack of sportsmanship, but Yu Kenan firmly asserted that "winning is sportsmanship." Coach Teng Biao also admonished Yu Kenan for his complete lack of team spirit and inability to take responsibility, explaining that his role as dorm leader was a test from Coach Mo. Yu Kenan, however, remained defiant, rejecting a care package from his father.
Later that day, the coaches decided to cancel afternoon training, allowing the players to retrieve their phones and contact their families. Xu Tan offered to get Lin Hao Zhi's phone but discovered he was missing. Worried by Lin Hao Zhi’s recent poor form, Xu Tan searched the entire base, then asked Yu Kenan to help him find Lin Hao Zhi.
Yu Kenan initially dismissed Xu Tan’s concerns, stating that the evening's cumulative points match was crucial for him and that Lin Hao Zhi’s issues were none of his business. Xu Tan, however, pressed him, reminding him of his responsibility as dorm leader and his earlier harshness towards Lin Hao Zhi. Despite his protests, Yu Kenan eventually joined Xu Tan.
Together, they scaled the training camp wall and borrowed an electric bike to search for Lin Hao Zhi, speculating he might have headed to the pier to catch a ferry. During their search, Xu Tan received a phone call from Lin Hao Zhi, who casually informed them he was already back at the dorm.
Annoyed but also understanding, Yu Kenan reluctantly agreed to Xu Tan's insistence on returning the electric bike to its owner even after it ran out of battery, forcing them to push it back. As they walked, Xu Tan reflected that Yu Kenan, despite rumors, wasn't as cold and unfeeling as he seemed. Yu Kenan lightened the mood with a playful threat to "smash" Xu Tan in their next match. Their late return meant they missed six matches, risking disqualification.
Coach Zheng Hao, emphasizing the importance of attitude, cited Yu Kenan's past absences. Xu Tan pleaded for a chance, and Coach Mo intervened, proposing a five-minute timed challenge: win nine out of twelve games, starting from a 9-9 score, but only if other players agreed. To incentivize participation, winning players would receive double points. Lin Hao Zhi, feeling immense guilt, immediately agreed.
Other teammates joined, swayed by loyalty, the allure of double points, or provoked by taunts, as Su Chang was. The fast-paced games began. Yu Kenan swiftly secured six wins, while Xu Tan managed two wins and two losses, reaching a stalemate in his fifth game.
With time running out, Yu Kenan stepped in to play the final game for Xu Tan, winning the point, but the ball landed a split second after the timer expired, resulting in a loss for their team. Lin Hao Zhi was distraught, blaming himself, but Xu Tan offered him comfort.
Xu Tan's roommates, who called themselves the "New Zealand trio," impressed by his loyalty in searching for Lin Hao Zhi, embraced him as a true friend, even offering him "secrets" to make training easier. Yu Kenan, brooding over the loss, continued to train aggressively. Coach Teng Biao explained to Coach Mo that Yu Kenan was fixated on a promise they made: he wouldn't lose a single match during the regional training if he wanted to return to the national team.
Believing he had lost his chance, Yu Kenan's frustration was spilling over. Coach Mo acknowledged Yu Kenan’s drive as an asset but cautioned Teng Biao to manage his volatile temperament. Later, in a softer approach, Coach Mo and Teng Biao reminded Yu Kenan that "before the ball hits the ground, anything is possible," implying his chance at the national team was not yet over.
Yu Kenan's spirits immediately lifted, his earlier negativity vanishing as he vowed to excel in upcoming cultural and physical training. When Xu Tan apologized again for causing trouble, Yu Kenan playfully punched him in the chest, calling it "retaliation," solidifying a growing camaraderie between them.
Episode 4 Recap
To address the issue of players slacking off, the Regional Training camp arranged for Liu Da Qiao, a top fitness coach from the national team, to lead their physical training. She was the same captivating woman Xu Tan and others had seen in the cafeteria. On the first day of training, Xu Tan was enticed by He Jin Bao and his friends to skip training, but they were caught by Liu Da Qiao almost immediately.
She sternly assigned them fifty squats and deducted three training points from each of them, warning that repeated offenses would lead to their return to their provincial teams. He Jin Bao's smooth-talking only earned him another fifty squats. Later, Xu Tan recorded his thoughts in his notebook. He reflected that the physical hardship of training was nothing compared to the daily struggle of facing repeated failures, and that pressure had become a habit.
He admitted that some, like Yu Kenan, seemed naturally gifted, while he and his friends lacked such talent. Yet, this training was his only chance, with no room for retreat, so he resolved to work hard and "bite on Yu Kenan," pushing himself to catch up. After intense physical training, the players attended cultural classes. Many students, exhausted, dozed off at their desks. The teacher questioned the students, who mostly drew blanks.
When asked about a mnemonic for trigonometric values, Lu Xiao Bei offered a nonsensical answer. When Xu Tan was called upon after being woken up, he also gave a nonsensical answer, but the teacher praised his sincere attitude and diligent note-taking, contrasting him with others. The teacher emphasized that knowledge is interconnected and important beyond just ping-pong, expressing his desire for curious individuals rather than those who only care about their sport.
During the class, Yu Kenan, irritated by an eraser thrown at him (presumably by Lu Xiao Bei), angrily challenged the teacher, stating he'd rather practice ping-pong than waste time in cultural class. The teacher warned him that a lack of respect would narrow his path, even if he were a world champion, prompting Yu Kenan to storm out.
In the locker room, Lu Xiao Bei and Su Chang openly ridiculed Xu Tan's diary, reading aloud his resolution to "bite on Yu Kenan." This revealed to Xu Tan, who was also present, that Lu Xiao Bei was the one who had read his diary and thrown it in the water. A heated argument erupted, with Lu Xiao Bei calling Xu Tan a "loser." Yu Kenan intervened, defending Xu Tan by calling Lu Xiao Bei a "backstabber."
At that moment, Jia Yu, a former teammate of Yu Kenan from the national team, appeared. Jia Yu provoked Yu Kenan, blaming him for his own departure from the national team. Enraged, Yu Kenan was about to retaliate, but Xu Tan quickly reminded him that another fight would permanently prevent his return to the national team. Yu Kenan, holding back his fury, told Jia Yu he wouldn't fall for his trap again.
Later that night, Yu Kenan found Xu Tan's notebook in the dorm, saw "bite on Yu Kenan" circled, and shook his head with a wry smile. Coach Zheng Hao announced the rules for the upcoming tournament: in 14 days, all training points would be locked. On the final day of training camp, the top three players from the provincial teams would compete against the bottom three players from the Second team in a single-round robin tournament.
The top three overall performers would enter the national Second team, while the rest would be eliminated. Coach Zheng Hao stressed that training intensity would increase, and while points leaders shouldn't relax, those behind still had a chance to overtake them. He also warned against serious misconduct, which would disqualify a player from the tournament. Teng Biao added that the cultural exam that week would also be crucial for scores.
Xu Tan was seen calculating how many more matches he needed to win to qualify for the tournament. As intense training continued, the cultural class saw a surprising increase in attentiveness among the players, now aware that cultural exam scores would contribute to their training points. Xu Tan excelled, ranking first in the cultural exam and earning four bonus points.
To everyone's astonishment, Yu Kenan genuinely congratulated Xu Tan and offered him encouragement, remarking that while cultural scores are good, true skill is shown on the court. Shortly after, Su Chang and Lu Xiao Bei confronted Xu Tan, accusing him of intentionally providing wrong answers. Xu Tan retorted that Lu Xiao Bei had forcibly taken his scratch paper during the exam, copying answers without realizing some questions were missing, leading to all incorrect responses.
Lu Xiao Bei, despite his own fault, blamed Xu Tan. Xu Tan, undeterred by their provocations, told his friends that true victory lay only in superior ping-pong skills. His friends, feeling guilty for their earlier slacking that cost Xu Tan points, pledged to help him prepare to defeat Su Chang and reclaim his lost points. Xu Tan's friends attempted to give him "special training," suggesting unconventional tactics like psychological manipulation during matches by deliberately questioning scores.
Xu Tan rejected these methods, insisting he wanted to defeat Su Chang fairly. His friends also showed him different serve techniques, including one that involved tossing the ball high, which improved its speed. Meanwhile, Teng Biao returned Yu Kenan's national team uniform, urging him to keep it as both a memento and a reminder, and warning him about Jia Yu's presence in the tournament, advising Yu Kenan to control his temper lest others exploit his aggression.
Xu Tan found Lin Hao Zhi struggling to replace his racket's rubber, contemplating quitting. Lin Hao Zhi confided that he felt unsuitable for ping-pong. Xu Tan shared his own past, revealing his childhood asthma and his mother's initial discouragement, but explaining how he found joy in playing his best and discovering his limits, rather than solely focusing on winning titles. Lin Hao Zhi admired Xu Tan's clarity and purpose.
Later, the coaches announced the tournament qualifiers from the provincial teams: Yu Kenan was ranked first, Su Chang second, and Xu Tan was among the top three. It was also announced that Lin Hao Zhi had withdrawn from the training camp early for personal reasons. It was the day before New Year's Eve, and the team was granted a day off, cheering in celebration. However, Xu Tan, despite qualifying for the tournament, was not joyful.
Instead, he immediately went to find Lin Hao Zhi, who was leaving. Xu Tan found him by the sea. Lin Hao Zhi apologized for his sudden departure, explaining that he felt he had reached his limit in ping-pong. He shared how sitting by the sea made him realize there were many other things to explore beyond the confined "island" of table tennis.
Drawing a parallel to Ron giving Harry his magic wand and others following suit in the battle against Voldemort, allowing Harry to gather their beliefs and defeat the dark lord, Lin Hao Zhi entrusted his racket to Xu Tan, asking him to carry it into a world that was no longer accessible to him, hoping Xu Tan would represent him in it.
A veteran Chinese ping-pong coach, Ding Yu Sen, recently back from an overseas tour, delivered an inspiring speech to the trainees. He told them they had already reached the "peak of the pyramid" by making it to the training camp, and should be proud regardless of whether they made the national team. He humorously added that sometimes, not being selected simply meant they were born in highly competitive China.
Later, Xu Tan spoke with Lei Lei on the phone about his progress, only for Lei Coach to appear. Lei Coach took the phone, spoke with Xu Tan's mother, then playfully chided Xu Tan for being aloof with his mother and reminded him of his past indecisiveness about quitting. Despite his gruff exterior, Lei Coach expressed his quiet pride in Xu Tan making it to the tournament. Separately, Yu Kenan sat alone on the stairs, evidently upset.
He ended an angry phone call with his father (Yu Ge), frustrated that his father only seemed to care about his ping-pong scores and not about him personally. Teng Biao approached Yu Kenan, sharing a personal anecdote about his own rebellious youth and his father's tough but loving ways. Teng Biao gently conveyed that all fathers love their sons, though their methods may vary, and urged Yu Kenan to join the others for dinner.
Episode 5 Recap
The tournament, a single-round robin best-of-five competition, began with the top three players earning a spot on the national second team. In the first round, Yu Kenan swiftly defeated Han Xin 3-0, Xu Tan edged out Guan Wei 3-2, and Su Chang triumphed over Jia Yu 3-1. Yu Kenan secured his victories with ease, taking a significant lead in points.
However, Xu Tan found himself tied with Su Chang, making their final match a critical "death match" where the winner would advance. Xu Tan was also advised to remain cautious of Jia Yu and Guan Wei, as they could still surpass him. He hoped Yu Kenan would defeat Jia Yu to ease his situation. In the final match, Su Chang tried to provoke Xu Tan, who ignored him but still lost the first point, affecting his mood slightly.
Yu Kenan, playing against Jia Yu, easily won his match, attributing his success in part to the strategies Xu Tan had shared with him regarding Jia Yu's deceptive moves. Jia Yu struggled to differentiate between Yu Kenan's real and fake serves, leading to his defeat. After the match, Jia Yu confronted Yu Kenan, admitting he had intentionally given him water disguised as alcohol in the past to sabotage Yu Kenan's participation in a crucial competition.
Though enraged, Yu Kenan managed to control himself and prevent a physical altercation, refusing to fall for Jia Yu's provocations again. Meanwhile, Xu Tan's match against Su Chang was intense. In the fifth game, Xu Tan found himself two points behind, visibly flustered. He took a mental break, recalling Yu Kenan's earlier advice to clear his mind and not overthink while on the court. He also seemed to abandon his reliance on his notebook.
Returning to the table with a calmer demeanor, Xu Tan focused on Su Chang’s weakness in his backhand, winning three consecutive points to secure his victory by two points. The coach then announced the results: Guan Wei placed third, Xu Tan second, and Yu Kenan first in the tournament and second in the overall training ranking. All three were officially promoted to the national second team.
Xu Tan felt a sense of disbelief at joining the national team after his first training camp. Lei Cheng, his coach, reassured him that his success was the result of consistent hard work, acknowledging that luck is also a part of strength in competitions. He encouraged Xu Tan to be confident, assuring him of his continued support. Xu Tan promised to work diligently and not disappoint him.
Lei Cheng then advised Xu Tan to cherish his upcoming Chinese New Year holiday, suggesting it might be his last for some time. Yu Kenan returned home for the Chinese New Year. His mother asked him to go to the training center to get his father, Yu Ge, who wasn't answering her calls, to come home for dinner. At the center, Yu Kenan playfully challenged some young players, making them cry.
When Yu Ge arrived, he intended to punish the crying children with a bamboo cane, believing physical discipline was necessary. Yu Kenan intervened, arguing that such methods were outdated. Annoyed by Yu Kenan's arrogance, Yu Ge challenged him to a single-point match against a young player named Zhang Chao Jie. Underestimating his young opponent and momentarily distracted by the word 'Champion' on the table, Yu Kenan lost the single point, much to the young player's delight.
Yu Ge seized the opportunity to lecture Yu Kenan about his overconfidence after joining the national team, expressing concern that his arrogance would lead to his dismissal. Unwilling to listen further, Yu Kenan abruptly left the dinner table. The next morning, his mother found a note from him stating that he had returned to the team early.
A flashback showed a young Yu Kenan training under his father's strict guidance, often being punished with the cane for not adhering to his father's specific instructions. Xu Tan returned home for Chinese New Year. His father, aware of Xu Tan's national team entry, had kept it from his mother, who had already finalized plans for Xu Tan to enroll in Experimental Middle School as a student with PE speciality.
During their reunion dinner, Xu Tan revealed his news, infuriating his mother. She felt betrayed that her son and husband had hidden such a major decision from her, and that her meticulous efforts to secure his school admission were now wasted. The festive dinner quickly devolved into a heated argument. Later, feeling increasingly isolated at home, Xu Tan walked past his late grandfather's room, now filled with miscellaneous items, lamenting the void left by his grandfather's absence.
A flashback depicted a younger Xu Tan, who took up ping-pong due to asthma, being hospitalized because of it. His mother blamed ping-pong, but his grandfather was his biggest supporter, encouraging him and believing he would become a world champion. It was Lei Lei's birthday, and she had prepared curry rice for her father, Lei Cheng, and Xu Tan.
Her excitement waned when Lei Cheng presented a birthday cake decorated with a ping-pong ball and the words "Good things come in pairs; May victory be with you," clearly celebrating Xu Tan's entry into the national team rather than just her birthday. She reluctantly joined Xu Tan in making a wish and blowing out the candles. Throughout dinner, Lei Cheng continuously praised Xu Tan's achievement, largely ignoring Lei Lei. Feeling overshadowed and hurt, Lei Lei excused herself to her room.
There, she opened a birthday gift from her mother—a CD player—and read a heartfelt card expressing her mother's love and acknowledgment of her passion for music. Overwhelmed, Lei Lei left the house. Lei Cheng, still engrossed in conversation with Xu Tan about the national team, remained oblivious to his daughter's distress. Sensing Lei Lei's anger, Xu Tan quickly followed her out.
Episode 6 Recap
Xu Tan, having successfully joined the national team, was taken by Guan Wei to get essential items and familiarize himself with the new environment. Guan Wei explained that training must adhere strictly to the rules, and only main players like Fu Jingchun and Zhang Chen could arrange additional training sessions with their coach's permission. Competition was fierce, with absolute main players having priority for training equipment and resources, extending even to living conditions and custom-made shoes.
Yu Kenan once again became roommates with Xu Tan in a triple room, which only had two cupboards. Yu Kenan, convinced he would soon return to a double room, didn't bother unpacking his luggage. Among the other residents in the dorm was main player Zhang Chen, who seemed to harbor significant prejudice against Yu Kenan. Yu Kenan maintained his aloof demeanor, not wishing to get close to anyone.
While in the room, Teng Biao visited Yu Kenan to deliver a special custom-made 95-gram paddle from Yu Ge, which finally brought a rare smile to Yu Kenan's face. Teng Biao remarked that such a custom paddle was not cheap. Yu Kenan initially dismissed it as a waste of money, but when Teng Biao mockingly suggested donating the paddle along with a box of his mother's clothes, Yu Kenan immediately chased after him to reclaim it.
Lei Cheng also followed suit, becoming a national team coach, which gave Xu Tan a greater sense of belonging in the new team. At the cafeteria, players were eating when Fang Yue, a national First Team champion, returned, instantly breaking the calm as players swarmed him for autographs.
Xu Tan had naturally heard of Fang Yue's reputation and, when the champion sat at an empty spot next to him, couldn't resist sliding his notebook towards Fang Yue, successfully securing a signature and feeling overjoyed. Xu Tan, feeling he had overshadowed Lei Lei's actual birthday, specially ordered another cake for her. Lei Lei's previous birthday had coincided with her parents' divorce, making birthdays an awkward occasion for her and Lei Cheng.
Xu Tan’s subtle arrangement led Lei Cheng to personally cook a meal for his daughter as compensation, which Lei Lei found comforting. Lei Lei later called Xu Tan, admitting she ate the cake. She jokingly said it had a "weird taste" before admitting it was delicious and thanking him, even though Lei Cheng had tried to take credit.
Lei Lei confided in Xu Tan, sharing that on her fifth birthday, her father Lei Cheng and her mother had prepared many gifts and a big cake, but immediately after, her mother left because her parents had divorced. This made birthdays awkward for her and Lei Cheng every year. Official training for the national team began. The national Second Team comprised 26 players using 13 tables. Table assignments were based on points accumulated from an intragroup elimination tournament.
The most coveted "center table" in the training hall was reserved only for the top two players within the team, a goal all second team members strived for, including Yu Kenan, who looked at it with determination. Xu Tan’s first day in the national team coincided with Mr. Mo Hongwei’s retirement, significant ITTF reforms, and the appointment of new head coach Fu Chuan Zhi, coach Lei Cheng, and assistant coach Qin Zhen.
Fu Chuan Zhi delivered a rousing speech, acknowledging recent losses in major international tournaments, such as the 2000 World Ping-Pong Tournament in Kuala Lumpur, the 2003 World Ping-Pong Tournament in Paris, and the 2004 Olympics. He emphasized the Second Team's role as successors and the future of the national team, urging them to develop a competitive spirit to "snatch the class and seize the shift" and surpass the First Team.
He then introduced the three new members: Yu Kenan from the Shanghai team, Ma Chuan (nicknamed Fatty) from the Jiangsu team, and Xu Tan from the Beijing team. After the introductions, the team solemnly stood for the national anthem, facing the Chinese flag. During a training session, Ma Chuan's constant chatter led to Zheng Hao punishing Xu Tan, Yu Kenan, and Ma Chuan with an additional ten laps.
Zheng Hao, known for his strictness, asserted that the national team owes no player a spot or glory; players must complete their training tasks, or even a single missed ball or step would not be tolerated. In the locker room, Zhang Chen and others discussed Coach Zheng Hao, noting his success with players like Fu Jingchun, Kang Ning, and Nie Rui Feng, and how being under him was considered "halfway into the First Team."
They then moved on to Yu Kenan's past, recalling how he was expelled from the national team for getting drunk and assaulting a teammate. Zhang Chen stated that everyone saw Yu Kenan throw the first punch and that even his coach at the time didn't defend him, leading Zhang Chen to believe their former teammate Jia Yu befriended Yu Kenan out of pity. Xu Tan tried to argue that there must have been a reason for the fight.
Yu Kenan, overhearing the conversation, silently walked away, disdaining to explain the truth. Xu Tan later approached Yu Kenan, stating his unwavering decision to choose Lei Cheng as his coach, acknowledging Lei Cheng's instrumental role in his journey to the national team. He also observed that Teng Biao seemed to treat Yu Kenan well.
Yu Kenan, however, dismissed Teng Biao as merely his father's messenger and coldly advised Xu Tan to mind his own business, reminding him that this was no longer the provincial team or a training camp. In the coaches' meeting, the discussion turned to assigning the three new recruits. Teng Biao believed Yu Kenan had great potential and suggested assigning him to Zheng Hao.
However, Zheng Hao expressed strong reservations, viewing Yu Kenan as a difficult "time bomb" due to his "notorious record" and unruly nature. He preferred Ma Chuan, noting that while Ma Chuan’s data wasn't perfect, his issues were minor and easily fixable, and Zheng Hao was confident he could guide him to improvement. Other coaches further detailed Yu Kenan's past misdeeds, including drinking, skipping training, and staying out all night, arguing that resources should be allocated to more deserving players.
When Fu Chuan Zhi asked who would take Xu Tan, the room fell silent, no one volunteering. It became clear that, despite Lei Cheng's desire for Xu Tan to have a better coach, he was the only one willing to take him on. In the training hall, the same situation regarding Xu Tan's perceived lack of talent and extremely poor physical condition quickly made him famous within the national Second Team.
Zhang Chen openly mocked Xu Tan, calling him "little Guan Wei," suggesting Xu Tan was at the bottom of the ranks, just as Guan Wei had been before him. This also explained Guan Wei's somber expression while speaking to Xu Tan about the national team's realities.
Episode 7 Recap
The national team's training officially began with coach Zheng Hao announcing team reassignments. All previous scores were reset to zero, with future tests, attendance, and discipline contributing to new points. Players with the lowest scores would be eliminated, as national team spots were not guaranteed. Xu Tan and Guan Wei were assigned to Mr. Lei Cheng's team, while Yu Kenan joined Mr. Teng Biao's team. After the announcement, Mr. Teng Biao noticed Yu Kenan's displeasure with the assignment.
He clarified that Yu Kenan's initial basic training tasks were essential, not just warm-ups, and that he must master basic skills within three months to surpass Fu Jing Chun. Meanwhile, during a run, Yu Kenan caught sight of a mysterious woman in black, which surprisingly brought a smile to his face, though she remained aloof.
Mr. Lei Cheng, leading Xu Tan and Guan Wei, emphasized the critical importance of the first three strokes in high-level competition, using Fu Jing Chun's fast Penhold Grip shot as an example of strong offensive play. He explained that every shot needed a clear purpose and announced he would develop new offensive strategies for them, requiring Xu Tan to change his long-standing grip and playing stance to boost his attack.
Guan Wei expressed concern that these drastic changes might not be beneficial, and Xu Tan himself found it difficult, struggling to adapt. Despite his doubts, Xu Tan trusted Mr. Lei Cheng, who genuinely wished for his improvement. Guan Wei later advised Xu Tan to distance himself from Yu Kenan, stating that Yu Kenan was a different kind of person, exceptionally talented and willing to sacrifice everything for ping-pong, and would likely not become a true friend.
Guan Wei warned Xu Tan not to become like Jia Yu. For his part, Yu Kenan expressed to a teammate that he cared little about his living arrangements or coach assignments; his sole focus was the coveted central ping-pong table. Life in the national team was intense; even a talent like Yu Kenan pushed himself constantly. Xu Tan continued to struggle with his new grip and stances, finding it hard to abandon old habits.
During physical training, Xu Tan tried to help Guan Wei by falsely reporting his sit-up count, but the deception was quickly discovered by Mr. Fu Chuanzhi. Mr. Fu sternly reprimanded the entire group, emphasizing the importance of collective honor and punishing all team members with an additional two hundred push-ups. Xu Tan’s scores reflected his struggles, with him and Guan Wei tying for last place with 280 points.
Mr. Lei Cheng suggested that adjusting to a new style takes time, but Mr. Fu pointed out that three months should have been sufficient. Despite his challenges, Yu Kenan quickly climbed the ranks. An updated score summary showed Yu Kenan with 350 points, tied for first place with Fu Jing Chun, having even broken Kang Ning’s record.
However, Mr. Zheng expressed a strong prejudice against Yu Kenan, citing his unstable mentality, emotional volatility, and obvious weaknesses, asserting that no matter his talent, he would only excel within the team and never reach international competitions. Later, Mr. Fu Chuanzhi discussed Yu Kenan with Mr. Teng Biao, who initially worried Yu Kenan had caused more trouble. Mr. Fu, however, presented a document that revealed Yu Kenan's impressive feat of breaking Kang Ning's record.
Mr. Fu saw immense potential in Yu Kenan and emphasized the need to find ways to further his development. Soon after, Yu Kenan earned his spot back at the central table, replacing Zhang Chen. Zhang Chen, feeling provoked, disparaged Yu Kenan as merely Fu Jing Chun's training partner and belligerently claimed Yu Kenan's room. Yu Kenan, unfazed, merely retorted, "Can't you speak civilly?"
However, Mr. Zheng intervened, presenting Yu Kenan with a personal training plan and instructing him to serve as Fu Jing Chun's training partner every morning for the week, as Fu Jing Chun was the second team's seed preparing for the World Junior Championship. Yu Kenan vehemently refused to be a mere sparring partner, asserting his equal standing with Fu Jing Chun. He boldly proposed a match between them, with the winner becoming the primary player.
Enraged by Yu Kenan's defiance, Mr. Zheng, recalling Yu Kenan's "emotionally unstable" nature, ordered him to run ten thousand meters. Mr. Teng Biao quickly stepped in to calm Mr. Zheng, trying to shield Yu Kenan from further punishment. Observing this, Xu Tan asked Yu Kenan why he would risk offending Mr. Zheng over a table.
Yu Kenan passionately explained that the central table was his "first gold medal" in the national team, viewing the world only in terms of gold medalists and other players. To address Yu Kenan's rebellious spirit, Mr. Teng Biao arranged for him to go to the women's First team, framing it as a competition rather than mere training. Yu Kenan was tasked with winning against all the main players of the women's team to be allowed back to men's team training.
Yu Kenan, supremely confident and dismissive, declared he would not lose and would accept any punishment if he did. Concurrently, to prepare the Second team for international competition against diverse playing styles, seven special players with unique techniques arrived. These players, seemingly from various local regions, appeared uninhibited and quirky, a stark contrast to the disciplined national team members. Among them was Liu Shi, a boisterous and overly familiar character who immediately caused a stir.
Upon entering the trophy room, he expressed great excitement at seeing the Iran, Heydusek, and Swaythling Cups. He quickly deduced that the Swaythling Cup on display was a replica because the names were printed rather than carved, and he even recognized one of the St. Bride Cups (also known as the W. J. Pope Trophy) as Zhuang Ze Dong's. Attempting to get closer to the trophies, Liu Shi nearly dropped the replica Swaythling Cup, which Xu Tan quickly saved.
Liu Shi, mispronouncing Xu Tan's name as "weak and sick," tried to persuade Xu Tan to take a photo of him, boasting of his ambition to be an Olympics' champion. Later, at a team assembly, Mr. Zheng formally introduced the seven new players, explaining their purpose was to improve the Second team's recent unstable performance and enhance their adaptability to special playing styles during a month-long training cycle.
Liu Shi, spotting Xu Tan, tried to greet him as an "old friend," but Mr. Zheng swiftly curtailed the interaction, reminding everyone of the national team's strict rules. Meanwhile, at the women's team training center, Yu Kenan arrived. Mr. Teng Biao asked if he had any regrets, but Yu Kenan remained steadfast in his refusal to regret.
A female player informed Yu Kenan that he had indeed broken Kang Ning's record but added that Kang Ning had lost badly to "Sister Nan" when he competed against their team. Yu Kenan, unfazed, simply inquired about their main players before beginning his match, a best-of-five series.
Later, Liu Shi was discovered in the women's team locker room, holding a signed paddle from Kang Ning and claiming to be close friends with Kang Ning, Fang Yue, and other main players, much to the surprise of a female player. He declared his intention to stay.
Episode 8 Recap
Yu Kenan, still full of confidence, faced the women's First team in a continuous battle, quickly winning four rounds and leaving them disheartened. Their last hope was their ace player, Zhang Caiwei, the woman Yu Kenan had coincidentally met while jogging. Yu Kenan, brimming with arrogance, underestimated them, believing they could only get lucky on the first two shots. He suggested playing five shots instead of a best-of-five format.
Zhang Caiwei, radiating a natural self-assurance that was more restrained than Yu Kenan's brashness, insisted on following the rules by flipping a coin for the serve. Despite Yu Kenan's eagerness to finish quickly, the match concluded with a 3-2 defeat for him. Yu Kenan was furious about losing to a woman, instinctively making excuses that he hadn't played his best and demanding another round. Mr. Teng immediately intervened, ordering him to stop embarrassing himself and pack his bags.
Through this defeat, Yu Kenan realized how far he was from becoming a world champion, and his training hours extended significantly. He felt too ashamed to return to the men's team after such a loss. Mr. Teng, with a hint of sarcasm, suggested he might be kept by the women's team since they needed strong competitors, leaving Yu Kenan speechless. Meanwhile, members of the unique style team moved into the national team dormitories.
Because Yu Kenan was assigned a double room, Liu Shi took his previous bed and became Xu Tan's new roommate. Liu Shi excitedly told Xu Tan how he had admired Yu Kenan since childhood, envisioning him as a star and dreaming of playing against him in the city. He was thrilled to now see Yu Kenan every day. The other special team members were assigned to a single large room, where their lack of discipline quickly showed.
They were noisy, playing loud music and shouting, creating a chaotic "wet market" atmosphere, much to the annoyance of their neighbors, who demanded quiet. The unique style team officially joined the national team, but their purpose was to serve as training partners, a "whetstone" or "human ladder" requiring a spirit of self-sacrifice. Each member's playing style mirrored that of top international players, allowing the national team to familiarize themselves with potential future opponents.
Mr. Lei, their assigned coach, meticulously analyzed each player: Shi Chang He with his seven serves, Ma Yi's power-driven European-like style, Zhu Ge's rapid footwork reminiscent of Korea's Park Ji-min, and Liu Shi's chopping technique, which, though similar to Mr. Lei's, lacked the same court coverage and attacking power. Mr. Lei stressed the importance of thoroughly understanding their individual issues before addressing them.
Mr. Teng, aiming to temper Yu Kenan's arrogance, assigned him to train with the national football team, providing him with full gear. Yu Kenan, completely unfamiliar with team dynamics, exposed his individualistic tendencies, struggling to cooperate with his teammates. This new challenge, akin to being a novice, quickly frustrated him. However, his strong desire to play Zhang Caiwei again motivated him to persevere. The unique style team members proved to be a handful for Mr. Lei.
Liu Shi was caught eating sweet steamed buns in the audio-visual room, a restricted area where food was forbidden, a clear breach of national team rules. Following this, Mr. Lei gathered the entire unique style team, emphasizing their critical role as sacrificial training partners who enable the national team players to "fight for the gold medal and bring glory to the country" in world championships. He then sent them to train immediately.
One day, Ma Yi, suffering from back pain, suggested cupping. Liu Shi, remembering Ma Chuan's small earthen jars used for cooking soup, took one from Ma Chuan's room and asked Zhu Ge for a lighter to perform the cupping. Ma Chuan, returning with fresh ingredients to cook soup, was enraged to find his cherished jar being used for cupping. He furiously snatched and smashed it.
Realizing their mistake, Liu Shi and his teammates decided to apologize by treating Ma Chuan and everyone from his dorm, room 811, to dinner, also buying a new set of earthen jars as a peace offering. Yu Kenan, however, declined the invitation, and Xu Tan was unable to attend due to extra training from Mr. Lei, who wanted him to improve his first three strokes. Zhang Chen and the other roommates from room 811 attended the dinner.
Captain Shi Chang He, representing the unique style team, started by taking three penalty drinks as an apology for the jar incident, and the atmosphere initially became cordial as everyone ate and drank. But as Ma Chuan consumed more alcohol, his words grew sharp. He publicly ridiculed the unique style team, asserting that their "long pips" and "chop shot" styles were "outdated" and that they were merely "training partners" because they "were not cut out for it."
These blunt, dismissive remarks deeply wounded the pride of the unique style team members. A heated argument erupted, escalating into a full-blown brawl between the two teams under the influence of alcohol. The next day, Zheng Hao, the coach, was furious about the unauthorized drinking and the resulting fight. He punished the Second team players with fifteen laps of running after training.
However, the unique style team received a more severe penalty: all their independent training sessions were canceled, and they were forbidden from using the ping-pong tables outside of regular training hours. This disparity in punishment ignited a deep sense of injustice and frustration among the unique style team members, who felt unfairly targeted. Despite their anger, they were afraid to openly defy the national team. Liu Shi, however, quietly suggested he had a plan. Meanwhile, Mr. Teng observed Yu Kenan's improving cooperation and performance in football training and informed the football team's coach that Yu Kenan's specialized training would officially begin the following day.
Episode 9 Recap
During the National Team's break, the special team rushed to the training hall, hoping to get a set in before the National Team members returned. Liu Shi noted the hall was empty and, with only two hours before the Second Team arrived, instructed his teammates to pair up and take turns to ensure everyone got a full set of practice. Their training was interrupted by Ma Chuan, who demanded to know who permitted them to play there.
He insulted them, calling them mere "training partners" who should "just be good ping-pong launchers." Liu Shi's teammates reacted angrily, with one special team member noting that Coach Zheng himself had referred to them as "ping-pong launchers" in the past. As the verbal exchange escalated, Liu Shi suggested they settle the dispute with a match. Ma Chuan initially scoffed, questioning their right to compete, and Xu Tan tried to intervene, suggesting they go back to rest.
However, Ma Chuan, confident they couldn't lose, agreed to the challenge. Liu Shi proposed a "continuous battle," one game to decide the winner, with the condition that if the special team won, they would have exclusive use of the tables during lunch hours. Ma Chuan accepted. The matches began with intense rallies.
Xu Tan of the National Team, motivated by the desire to play against the special team, played a few balls, then feigned a calf cramp and conceded, allowing a special team member to replace him. Ma Chuan then went on a winning streak against several special team players. However, when Liu Shi stepped up, his normally simple and pure eyes transformed, revealing a fierce determination. Liu Shi played powerfully, leaving Ma Chuan no room to retaliate and easily defeating him.
Shortly after, Fu Jingchun arrived. Witnessing Liu Shi's impressive momentum, he couldn't resist challenging him. Though Fu Jingchun initially seemed to dominate, Liu Shi eventually triumphed, with Fu Jingchun making uncharacteristic "errors" like hitting the ball into the net, much to the confusion of the other National Team members. Just as the match concluded, Coach Fu Chuanzhi appeared, seemingly having anticipated the unofficial competition. He praised the special team's unyielding spirit, using it to underscore his message.
He sternly reprimanded the National Team players for unilaterally changing their training plans and holding unauthorized matches. When he asked who participated, everyone, from both teams, raised their hands. Fu Chuanzhi acknowledged that everyone had been restless. He criticized the National Team players for their arrogance, reminding them of the numerous international losses in recent years, emphasizing that they had been defeated by their own overconfidence and tendency to underestimate opponents.
Pointing to the trophy wall, he highlighted how many empty spaces there were compared to four years prior. He then clarified that the special team members, with their unique playing styles, were not mere training partners but formidable opponents. He stated that Liu Shi's chop technique was a critical challenge for the National Team to overcome in the coming period, encouraging them to find their own solutions.
Following Fu Chuanzhi's address, Lei Cheng, another coach, rallied the National Team, instructing them to focus on developing the explosive power needed to counter chop shots, starting with intensive strength training that afternoon. The National Team, now sobered by their defeat and Fu Chuanzhi's words, redoubled their efforts in training. Xu Tan, in particular, pushed himself in physical conditioning, even when his legs felt weak.
Lei Cheng had made significant changes to Xu Tan's long-standing playing habits, making Xu Tan feel like a novice. Xu Tan was worried about his future and the pressure on Lei Cheng, knowing that without results, Lei Cheng's position as a coach was also at risk. Fu Chuanzhi had also spoken with Lei Cheng about Xu Tan's inconsistent form and his "slow to warm up" nature, fearing Xu Tan might not keep up with the National Team's rhythm.
He suggested that Xu Tan needed to develop a more assertive playing style, "asking the questions" of his opponents rather than just reacting, to take control of the game. Lei Cheng later advised Xu Tan to focus solely on the "first three strokes," urging him to let go of distracting thoughts and ingrained habits, and to realistically assess his current standing to secure his future. Meanwhile, Yu Kenan was still mandated to play soccer.
He learned about Fu Jingchun's loss to Liu Shi from other teammates, reacting not with admiration for Liu Shi's skill, but with dismay at what he perceived as Fu Jingchun's decline. He boasted that he would have easily defeated Liu Shi if he were there. Yu Kenan tried to re-enter the ping-pong training hall but was denied entry by a security guard, who stated that Coach Teng Biao had explicitly forbidden it without his permission.
Yu Kenan confronted Teng Biao, complaining about being stuck on the soccer field and losing his touch in ping-pong. Teng Biao, however, accused Yu Kenan of having looked down on the ping-pong tables himself and admonished him for his lack of patience, questioning how he expected to become a champion. Teng Biao promised that if Yu Kenan could successfully intercept a soccer ball during his training, he would allow him to return to ping-pong practice.
On a rare day off, Xu Tan encountered Liu Shi in the facility selling signed ping-pong paddles he had collected from National Team players. Liu Shi, using his "thick-skinned, shameless, and opportunistic" approach, managed to sell one to a foreigner with Xu Tan's help in translation. Ma Chuan soon appeared and angrily confronted Liu Shi, accusing him of exploiting national players' signatures and "staining the spirit of ping-pong" by selling cheap paddles at inflated prices.
Xu Tan tried to mediate, arguing it was "just a paddle" and they were "teammates," which further enraged Ma Chuan, who refused to consider Liu Shi a teammate. Liu Shi quietly packed up his paddles. He later confided in Xu Tan that he was selling them to support his fourth grandmother, but preferred others to think he was greedy for money, as he genuinely liked earning it and didn't care for pity.
With the money earned, Liu Shi treated Xu Tan to two "Yuanyang milk teas," explaining the drink was half coffee and half milk tea, similar to a "double-flavoured hot pot." Liu Shi expressed his determination to stay in the National Team, despite others calling the special team "teaching aids" destined to leave. Xu Tan reassured him, mentioning that the entire Second Team was actively trying to figure out how to counter Liu Shi's chop.
Liu Shi, however, felt that once his strategy was deciphered, it would become ineffective, describing their style as "waiting for opponents to make mistakes." Xu Tan also felt disheartened, believing his defensive playing style was undervalued and that both chop and Lei Cheng's aggressive "first three strokes" didn't suit him. He felt his original style wasn't flawed. Liu Shi agreed, affirming that Xu Tan's previous style was powerful and he could succeed without forcing a change.
Recognizing Xu Tan's struggle, Liu Shi offered to teach him his chop technique so Xu Tan could better understand it. They began practicing together, but Xu Tan quickly grew frustrated, feeling he only managed a few correct chop shots. Liu Shi playfully pointed out his own decades of practice, but also praised Xu Tan as a quick learner. Eventually, Liu Shi suggested they return to their old training methods, believing it would help Xu Tan improve. Xu Tan agreed.
Other players noticed Xu Tan spending more time training with Liu Shi, gossiping that he had become "the training partner of the training partner team." Later, Liu Shi, driven by his relentless passion for table tennis, gained entry into the coaches' audiovisual room by falsely claiming he had left something inside. He was caught by Mr. Qin, who questioned his presence.
Liu Shi comically claimed he was looking for "knowledge and techniques," to which Mr. Qin retorted that the materials were decades old. Liu Shi then realized he was watching footage of Zheng Ren He and jokingly accused Mr. Qin of "copying" his special training techniques from the player. Mr. Qin quickly dismissed the accusation, but then briefly explained Zheng Ren He's strategy of anticipating short returns and attacking proactively. Liu Shi praised Mr. Qin's insights, but Mr. Qin quickly ushered him out, cutting short his impromptu lesson.
Episode 10 Recap
The special team members were eager to practice and used some unauthorized time in the table tennis hall. Fu Chuan Zhi noticed their practice and mildly cautioned them to balance playing well with eating properly. Meanwhile, in the locker room, Ma Chuan was overheard by Mr. Zheng telling his teammates that Liu Shi had been illicitly selling world champion autographed paddles for hundreds of yuan each, causing a stir in the national team.
Separately, Xu Tan and Liu Shi were practicing. Xu Tan observed that Liu Shi consistently lost points in close areas, especially against sudden drop shots. He advised Liu Shi to anticipate his opponent's movements more effectively, suggesting this foresight could turn a weakness into an offensive advantage. Liu Shi acknowledged that Assistant Coach Qin Zhen had given similar advice and complimented Xu Tan, saying he sounded like a coach and wondering if Xu Tan figured this out on his own.
Xu Tan explained he enjoyed analyzing these things and considered it his unique trait. Xu Tan then asked if Liu Shi had ever thought about attacking. Liu Shi replied that his provincial coach had never taught him attacking techniques, and he didn't see an opportunity to learn now, especially since their special team was leaving soon, with little hope of returning. Xu Tan reassured him that with his talent, things might not be as bleak as he thought.
Concurrently, Yu Kenan was still training with the football team. His coach, Teng Biao, pointed out his overeagerness, telling him not to rush every ball but to observe the opponent's rhythm and strike at the precise moment. Teng Biao stressed that this difference was the "gap" between Yu Kenan and Fu Jing Chun.
After this deep and heartfelt reminder from Teng Biao, Yu Kenan finally managed to intercept a ball during a football match, earning his way back to his beloved table tennis court. Back at the table tennis hall, Mr. Zheng confronted the special team. He announced that their training partner period was essentially over and they should prepare to leave.
When a special team member challenged him, asking about the difference between them and the Second team, Mr. Zheng disparaged the special team, emphasizing the national team's need for systematic training, discipline, and execution for victory. When the special team defended their commitment and mentioned Liu Shi's skill, Mr. Zheng directly accused Liu Shi of selling autographed world champion paddles.
Xu Tan tried to interject, mentioning Liu Shi's granny, but Mr. Zheng quickly silenced him, insisting that some members were exploiting their position for personal gain and demanding strict action. Coach Lei Cheng intervened, highlighting the special team's generally good performance and advocating for a second chance, rather than dismissing them all for the actions of a few.
Liu Shi stepped forward, taking sole responsibility for selling the paddles and offering to accept any punishment, as long as his teammates were spared. Fu Chuan Zhi agreed that the special team's current setup was unsustainable and announced its immediate cancellation.
However, he then revealed a new opportunity: members of the former special team could undergo a selection process, and those who ranked in the top ten of the World Junior Table Tennis Championships Selection in two weeks would be allowed to join the Second team as official members. This shocking announcement sparked renewed determination among the players. Fu Chuan Zhi also requested that from now on, all players should stand together, rather than separately.
A narrator clarified that the World Junior Table Tennis Championships, held since 2003, was a crucial competition alongside the World Championships, World Cup, and Olympics, and this year's important task fell to both the Second team and the special training partner team. As the selection approached, Mr. Zheng spoke to Fu Jingchun, instructing him to specifically target Yu Kenan, Liu Shi, Zhai Jia Chen, and Xu Nuo in the upcoming matches.
He acknowledged Yu Kenan's skill despite his recent absence from table tennis training, and Liu Shi's diligent practice, while reminding Fu Jingchun to avoid his old mistakes and control the match rhythm, especially against chop players. That night, Liu Shi used a public phone to call his granny, checking if she had received the money and reassuring her about his well-being in Beijing with its heating. His loud conversation, however, annoyed Ma Chuan, who reprimanded him for disturbing others' sleep.
Liu Shi apologized, promising to be quieter in the future. Xu Tan, witnessing the scene, generously offered Liu Shi his mobile phone for future calls, acknowledging the convenience. They wished each other good luck for their matches the next day. Teng Biao helped Yu Kenan tidy his messy room, jokingly comparing it to a "dog kennel" and contrasting his disorganization with Fu Jingchun's strict self-discipline.
Yu Kenan, irritated, blamed Teng Biao for making him play football, leaving no time to clean. Teng Biao retorted that if Yu Kenan were truly strict with himself, he wouldn't have been sent to football, accusing him of deflecting responsibility just like his father, who always blamed others for his losses. Yu Kenan emphatically rejected the comparison, promising to secure his spot in the World Junior Championships. Teng Biao approved of his confidence but reminded him to honor his commitments.
Yu Kenan assured him he remembered his words, unlike his father. Meanwhile, Lei Cheng visited Xu Tan, praising his recent hard work and noting his eighth-place ranking was his best performance since joining the Second team, indicating their targeted training was yielding results. He encouraged Xu Tan to thoroughly prepare for his opponents, play freely, showcase his unique style, and avoid carrying any mental burden for the final day of selections. Xu Tan acknowledged his master's advice.
On the final day of the selection, Yu Kenan arrived late, only to discover his match paddle was missing. Despite searching his room, he couldn't find it, forcing him to use his unfamiliar training paddle. This incident severely affected his focus, leading him to lose the first game against Liu Shi. His teammates tried to encourage him, but Yu Kenan, frustrated, blamed his "stupid paddle" for his poor performance and wanted to go look for his main paddle.
Teng Biao stopped him, questioning the real importance of the paddles in that moment. He urged Yu Kenan to analyze the issues exposed in his matches, rather than focusing on the lost game. Teng Biao, understanding Yu Kenan's past successes, emphasized the importance of learning to cope with defeat. Despite his initial frustration, Yu Kenan took Teng Biao's words to heart.
During his next game against Liu Shi, he calmed his mind, applied the "slow down" advice, stepped back to better observe Liu Shi's chop shots, and accurately predicted their direction and spin, gaining several points. However, Liu Shi, equally sharp, adapted his strategy, anticipating Yu Kenan's short returns and launching counter-attacks, ultimately winning the match. Yu Kenan's loss, with 32 points against Fu Jing Chun's 36, meant he would not qualify for the World Junior Championships.
Next, Xu Tan faced Liu Shi. In the first game, Xu Tan struggled, consistently losing points while attempting to follow Lei Cheng's offensive "first three strokes" strategy. Recalling Liu Shi's earlier encouragement that his original defensive style was effective and didn't need forced change, Xu Tan shifted his grip and abandoned the aggressive "first three strokes," reverting to his most familiar defensive playing style.
The commentators noted Xu Tan's change in tactics, observing that both players were now defensively waiting for the other's mistake, a style that seemed disadvantageous for Xu Tan given Liu Shi's potent chop shot. Suddenly, Liu Shi launched his signature chop, which Xu Tan expertly countered with a powerful forehand smash, winning the point and ultimately the match. Everyone realized Xu Tan had patiently set the stage, waiting for this crucial moment.
Liu Shi, though defeated, acknowledged Xu Tan's "incredible" performance, particularly in the final two games, and confirmed Xu Tan had given his all. Despite Xu Tan's victory, Lei Cheng seemed dejected and left.
Xu Tan was concerned about his coach's mood, guessing Lei Cheng knew about his secret training with Liu Shi and was upset that Xu Tan hadn't fully adopted his prescribed techniques, especially the "first three strokes," which Xu Tan found awkward and counter to his natural defensive strength. Liu Shi advised Xu Tan to openly communicate his thoughts to Lei Cheng, emphasizing that defense was Xu Tan's true strength.
Later, Xu Tan found Yu Kenan sitting in the living room, looking disheartened. Xu Tan tried to engage him by mentioning Guan Wei's departure from the national team, suggesting he wouldn't return. Yu Kenan, however, showed no interest, arguing that there was no point staying without achieving results. He vehemently stated he wasn't there to make friends and was solely focused on becoming a world champion, regretting the year he lost when he was demoted.
Xu Tan tried to reason with him, asserting that friends could offer support during tough times. Yu Kenan retorted by revealing that Jia Yu was his first friend in the national team, and he asked Xu Tan if he knew what Jia Yu had done to him, implying a deep betrayal that made him wary of friendships.
Episode 11 Recap
When Xu Tan questioned Yu Kenan's reluctance to form friendships, suggesting that friends could offer support during difficult times, Yu Kenan revealed the painful truth about his first friend in the national team, Jia Yu. He recounted how Jia Yu, feigning distress by drinking water from a liquor bottle, invited him to drink on the eve of a crucial match. Yu Kenan, wanting to comfort his friend, agreed to drink with him, not realizing it was a setup.
The following day, Yu Kenan arrived late for his match, hoping Jia Yu would explain. Instead, Jia Yu blamed Yu Kenan for initiating the drinking and missing the game due to his own fault. Realizing Jia Yu's betrayal, Yu Kenan chose not to expose the truth, believing it wouldn't change anything and preferring to fight his way back into the national team on his own merits. He hit Jia Yu in frustration.
Yu Kenan stated he didn't care about others' misunderstandings, even though he knew everyone thought he hit Jia Yu because he missed the game and couldn't get into the First team. However, Xu Tan insisted he cared about Yu Kenan as a friend. Yu Kenan then confided that Jia Yu had once said the very same words to him, leaving him deeply hurt and unwilling to trust anyone again.
Meanwhile, Liu Shi, watching a video of Qin Zhen playing against a Korean opponent, Zheng Ren He, was captivated by Qin Zhen's exceptional chop shot technique and forehand attack. Overwhelmed with admiration, Liu Shi approached Mr. Qin, excitedly asking him to be his master, though Mr. Qin brusquely told him to consult Mr. Lei if he had issues. Later, Mr. Lei noticed Xu Tan’s subdued mood despite his recent victory.
Xu Tan confessed that he had secretly practiced with Liu Shi. Mr. Lei wasn't angry; on the contrary, he was proud that Xu Tan had overcome Liu Shi, seeing it as proof of his capability. He emphasized the need for 100% trust between them to achieve their shared goals, including advancing to the First team and setting even higher aspirations.
Elsewhere, Teng Biao took a call from Yu Ge, Yu Kenan's father, who was furious that Yu Kenan had placed second in the World Junior Championship and thus failed to secure a spot in the national team, especially after hearing about his lost main paddle. Yu Ge angrily demanded to know if it was Yu Kenan or his main paddle that was competing.
Teng Biao tried to calm him, saying there would be other opportunities and that learning a lesson from this experience was more important. Two weeks later, as the special training partner team's period was nearing its end, Fu Chuan Zhi announced a half-day break for everyone to watch Fu Jingchun's World Junior Championship final. During the break, Ma Chuan complained to Yu Kenan about Xu Tan’s reluctance to share strategies for dealing with chop shots.
Ma Chuan then brought up Yu Kenan's missing main paddle, recalling that he had seen Liu Shi in Yu Kenan's room, implying Liu Shi might have taken it. Impulsively, Yu Kenan confronted Liu Shi, who was watching the final. Liu Shi denied stealing the paddle, explaining he had only admired the "Hurricane King" paddle for its exceptional quality, but would never steal. Other special team members defended Liu Shi, while a national team player provoked the special team.
The argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation between the two teams, during which a trophy was knocked over and shattered. Coaches Fu Chuan Zhi, Zheng Hao, and Lei Cheng arrived to investigate. A national team player immediately pointed fingers at Yu Kenan. Yu Kenan was about to explain when Xu Tan stepped forward and claimed responsibility, stating he had accidentally bumped into the trophy.
Yu Kenan, knowing that another disciplinary action could lead to his permanent expulsion, kept quiet as Xu Tan insisted it was his fault. Fu Chuan Zhi sternly lectured both teams about the importance of unity and representing the country, ordering Xu Tan and Yu Kenan to write self-reflection reports and await the coaching team's decision.
Later that night, while tidying his bed, Yu Kenan discovered his main paddle underneath it, filling him with profound guilt for having wrongly accused Liu Shi. Meanwhile, the coaching team convened to discuss the incident. Teng Biao defended Yu Kenan, stating it was merely an accident and that Yu Kenan was not malicious, having only training on his mind.
Zheng Hao, however, seized the opportunity to advocate for severe punishment, emphasizing adherence to team rules and the need to uphold national honor. At that moment, Mr. Wang, the coach of the women's First team, arrived, seeking a male training partner from the Second team who possessed exceptional skills. Teng Biao "recommended" Fu Jingchun, a strong seeded player, knowing Zheng Hao would object to his star player being relegated to a training partner role.
Indeed, Zheng Hao vehemently opposed it, citing Fu Jingchun’s demanding schedule and status as a seeded player. Fu Chuan Zhi supported Zheng Hao’s argument. Mr. Wang then asked for other suggestions, and Teng Biao, feigning reluctance, proposed Yu Kenan. Zheng Hao, eager to see Yu Kenan punished, quickly agreed. Mr. Wang was pleased to learn Yu Kenan specialized in backhand, a skill her team needed.
Although Teng Biao continued to pretend to object, it was a calculated move to ensure Yu Kenan received the relatively lighter punishment of becoming a training partner for the women's team, rather than a more severe one, while also satisfying Zheng Hao. Mr. Wang vowed to "educate" the seemingly arrogant Yu Kenan.
Mr. Lei then attempted to recommend Xu Tan for a training partner position, but Mr. Wang politely declined, explaining that her team only required one and that Xu Tan's skills were not yet what she was looking for. Later, Mr. Lei expressed his frustration to Fu Chuan Zhi about Zheng Hao's attitude. Fu Chuan Zhi explained that Xu Tan, a quiet individual, had deliberately taken the blame to save Yu Kenan from being expelled.
He also acknowledged Teng Biao's clever strategy in securing a more lenient punishment for Yu Kenan. Fu Chuan Zhi believed Xu Tan needed a period of personal growth and decided to remove him from the training hall for a while, confident it would ultimately benefit him. When Teng Biao presented Yu Kenan with the signed order to become a training partner for the women's team, Yu Kenan protested vehemently. Teng Biao offered to let him switch places with Xu Tan.
Upon learning that Xu Tan was being sent to the old storehouse to help the old keeper move equipment, Yu Kenan reluctantly accepted his assignment, realizing Xu Tan had been given a much tougher penalty. Teng Biao then told Yu Kenan that he knew in his heart whether he was truly to blame for the trophy incident. Mr. Lei visited Xu Tan, who was packing, and consoled him.
He assured Xu Tan that Fu Chuan Zhi's decision had a deeper purpose and advised him to approach his punishment with seriousness. He encouraged Xu Tan to find time to practice, even if he couldn't access a table, and to perform well to expedite his return to the team. Xu Tan arrived at the old storehouse, asking for "Mr. He." The old warehouse keeper, seemingly hard of hearing, informed him there was no Mr. He there.
After hearing Xu Tan was sent by Fu Chuan Zhi, the old man remarked with a hint of disdain that "that old man is still alive." He then instructed Xu Tan to sort through "useless" and "old" equipment, deliberately making the task difficult and forcing Xu Tan to move heavy items with his bare hands. The old man easily lifted a heavy barbell with one hand, demonstrating surprising strength.
Episode 12 Recap
Xu Tan continued his arduous task of moving sports equipment back and forth in the warehouse, directed by the elder Mr. He. Xu Tan complained to Mr. He, stating that he had made over twenty trips in just two days for only three items. He protested that he was there to play ping pong, not for repairs, even after fixing some broken equipment for Mr. He.
Mr. He, observing Xu Tan's hard work and obedience, noted that he was not a troublemaker, just an introverted and quiet person who simply followed instructions. Realizing that Xu Tan played ping pong, Mr. He's eyes lit up. He pulled out a long-forgotten ping pong table and challenged Xu Tan.
Initially, Xu Tan found it easy, but Mr. He increased the difficulty by placing tape with a small circular hole on the table, requiring Xu Tan to hit a ball through it to strike another ball behind it. After several failed attempts, Xu Tan asked who could possibly achieve such a feat. Mr. He revealed that Fang Yue, a famous player, used to train this way when he was a young, mischievous boy, undergoing similar punishments.
Inspired by this story, Xu Tan's competitive spirit was rekindled. Mr. He then brought out a decade-old automated ping pong serving machine that served balls with random topspins, backspins, sidespins, and mixed spins, at varying speeds and frequencies, making it incredibly challenging. Mr. He pointed out three worn spots on the table, telling Xu Tan these were marks left by Fang Yue during his training.
He challenged Xu Tan to conquer the machine, reminding him of his desire not to become "useless." Day after day, Xu Tan diligently continued to move equipment and train relentlessly with the serving machine. Mr. He later remarked that the incessant sound of ping pong from the warehouse had become a welcome change, a sound he hadn't heard consistently in a long time. Meanwhile, the special training team's time was up.
Liu Shi had successfully entered the national team, but for the others, their journey in professional ping pong was coming to an end. Xu Tan and Liu Shi went to bid them farewell. The teammates expressed their reluctance to leave, with one advising Xu Tan to look out for Liu Shi, who could be too blunt for the national team.
Another teammate apologized to Xu Tan for his role in the incident that led to Xu Tan's punishment, acknowledging that they were leaving while Xu Tan bore the responsibility. Xu Tan dismissed it, saying it was all in the past and he held no grudges. The teammates encouraged Xu Tan, believing he was different and destined for greatness, eagerly anticipating him becoming a champion.
When Liu Shi asked what they had to say to him, his teammates lightheartedly teased him for being forgotten at the start of their journey but acknowledged his achievement as the best chopper in the national second team. Before parting ways, they took a group photo, urging both Xu Tan and Liu Shi to make their names known. Fu Jingchun, still training under Mr. Zheng, felt he had reached a plateau and that his current training method wasn't effective.
He asked Mr. Zheng if there was a more suitable approach. Mr. Zheng, with a serious expression, had Zhang Chen place a paddle over the net, leaving only a tiny gap. Fu Jingchun managed to get only one out of three balls through the narrow opening. Mr. Zheng then demonstrated, effortlessly passing every ball through the gap, before sternly telling Fu Jingchun that in the national team, anything less than perfection was mediocrity.
Liu Shi, now officially in the national team, had set his sights on having Qin Zhen as his coach. He frequently followed Qin Zhen, trying to convince him, as he believed Qin Zhen, a world-class chopper, was the ideal mentor for his own chopping style. One evening, Liu Shi went out to mail money to his great-grandmother and stumbled upon a heavily intoxicated Qin Zhen. Liu Shi helped him back to his dorm.
Believing Qin Zhen to be asleep, Liu Shi confessed his difficult background, revealing that he had no parents and only his great-grandmother at home. He shared his deep desire to stay in the national second team, not only for his love of ping pong but also to provide a better life for his great-grandmother.
Qin Zhen, who had been awake the entire time, subtly encouraged Liu Shi, telling him that his gameplay was good and that choppers rarely made it into the second team, implying that Liu Shi had a promising future. Meanwhile, Yu Kenan's time as a training partner for the women's First team had started on a rocky note.
On his first day, he openly criticized a female player named Jing Jing, telling her that her current state meant she would only be "accompanying the runners" at the Asian Cup, causing her to cry. Zhang Caiwei immediately confronted Yu Kenan, telling him that while some of his criticisms might be true, he needed to communicate in a different manner. Yu Kenan retorted that changing his communication style wouldn't make her a champion.
He then tried to challenge Zhang Caiwei, but she curtly refused, stating he wasn't worthy of playing against her. After a period of reflection, Yu Kenan approached Liu Shi to apologize for accusing him of stealing his paddle. He acknowledged that being falsely accused was a terrible feeling.
Liu Shi, in turn, told Yu Kenan that he should thank Xu Tan, who had taken the blame for the trophy incident to prevent Yu Kenan from being expelled from the national team. Liu Shi also mentioned Xu Tan's recent late nights, hinting at his current difficult situation. Curious, Yu Kenan asked Liu Shi about the warehouse where Xu Tan was working.
That night, Yu Kenan visited the equipment warehouse and observed Xu Tan diligently training with the old automated serving machine. Seeing Xu Tan's dedication, a smile spread across Yu Kenan's face, signifying his full acceptance and appreciation of Xu Tan as a friend. The next day, Yu Kenan proactively engaged with Xu Tan during mealtime. He inadvertently let slip that he had seen Xu Tan's improved forehand while training, prompting Xu Tan to ask how he knew.
Embarrassed, Yu Kenan quickly made an excuse about extra training with Mr. Teng and hurried away. Following this, Yu Kenan sought out Mr. Teng, offering a sincere and profound apology for his past actions, acknowledging his mistakes in fighting and disrespecting coaches. His changed demeanor genuinely surprised Mr. Teng, who commented that while his new way of speaking was awkward, it was much more pleasant than before. Yu Kenan then explicitly requested to return to training.
Impressed by his newfound attitude, Mr. Teng agreed to find a way to get him back on the team. Buoyed by this promise, Yu Kenan returned to the women's team training area and immediately boasted to Zhang Caiwei about his impending return to training. He then started offering unsolicited advice to Xiao Jun during Zhang Caiwei's practice, analyzing every aspect of their technique. Annoyed by his meddling, Zhang Caiwei ignored him and walked away, despite Yu Kenan's attempts to stop her and challenge her to a game.
Episode 13 Recap
To facilitate Yu Kenan's return to training, Teng Biao sought out Fu Chuanzhi, who made it clear that the decision was not his to make. Since Yu Kenan had been assigned to the women's team, his reinstatement required the approval and signature of Mr. Wang, the women's team coach. Fu Chuanzhi also stressed the importance of ensuring Yu Kenan truly learned his lesson.
Following this, Teng Biao feigned repairing his bicycle chain outside the women's team quarters, orchestrating a "chance" encounter with Mr. Wang. He then asked Mr. Wang to sign the form for Yu Kenan, hoping for a swift approval. However, Mr. Wang insisted that Yu Kenan first prove himself as a competent training partner. He decided to consult his female team members for their assessment of Yu Kenan’s recent performance. The female team members enthusiastically voiced their complaints about Yu Kenan.
They described him as frequently late, disrespectful, constantly talking, and making disparaging remarks about their skills. Zhang Caiwei concurred, stating that Yu Kenan simply did not understand how to properly act as a training partner. Hearing this, Teng Biao grew angry and told Yu Kenan he could only discuss his return to the men's team once he had earned the women's team’s genuine recognition. Meanwhile, Lei Cheng approached Fu Chuanzhi to discuss Xu Tan’s return to training.
Fu Chuanzhi reiterated that Xu Tan’s punishment was a unanimous team decision and could not be arbitrarily changed, emphasizing that adherence to rules was paramount. He also reminded Lei Cheng that a player's progress is measured by concrete data and performance metrics, not merely confidence.
Undeterred, Lei Cheng made a solemn agreement, vowing that if Xu Tan failed to achieve good results in the upcoming promotion and relegation match—which was less than six months away—he himself would also resign from the national team. Fu Chuanzhi questioned his certainty, but Lei Cheng stood firm in his commitment. Still frustrated in the women's team, Yu Kenan practiced alone, defiantly declaring he could train by himself just like Xu Tan.
Mr. Wang called him over, reprimanding him for his poor performance as a training partner. Yu Kenan complained that the top players in the women’s team refused to train with him. Mr. Wang then assigned Zhang Caiwei to train with Yu Kenan, explaining that Yu Kenan’s strong backhand was crucial for her to prepare for similar opponents in the Asian Cup. He sternly warned Yu Kenan that any further misbehavior would be reported directly to Fu Chuanzhi.
During their practice, Yu Kenan actively coached Zhang Caiwei, offering advice on her technique. Later, Yu Kenan sought Zhang Caiwei’s objective assessment of his performance, even asking for a comparison to Xiao Jun. Zhang Caiwei admitted she could not beat him in an eleven-point game. However, she candidly pointed out that while his strengths were evident, his weaknesses were equally exaggerated, bluntly calling his attitude "a jerk."
She specifically highlighted that despite his powerful backhand, he lacked skill in "winning shots," identifying this as his greatest vulnerability in high-stakes matches. Yu Kenan, in a rare display of humility, asked her for advice on how to improve his winning shots. When Zhang Caiwei appeared uncomfortable and unwell, Yu Kenan, unaware of her specific situation, urged her to voice the problem so they could resolve it. Eventually, an embarrassed Zhang Caiwei asked him to buy sanitary products for her.
Yu Kenan awkwardly headed to the supermarket, attempting to hide from other male teammates he encountered, who nevertheless noticed his discreet black bag and teased him about it. Upon his return, he handed Zhang Caiwei the items and, noticing a stain, quickly offered his jacket to help her cover it before shyly retreating. Later that night, Zhang Caiwei was seen washing Yu Kenan’s jacket.
Her teammate playfully hinted at a romantic connection, but Zhang Caiwei clarified the situation, though her teammate remained impressed by Yu Kenan's unexpected kindness. Separately, other male players teased Yu Kenan about using sanitary pads, but he quickly deflected, claiming they were for shoe inserts to protect his feet. Teng Biao met Mr. Wang again, who confirmed he had signed Yu Kenan’s form.
Mr. Wang revealed that Zhang Caiwei and her teammates had actually complained about Yu Kenan and requested his immediate removal, indicating that his signing was merely a "favor" to his team. Realizing that Yu Kenan still needed more discipline, Teng Biao requested that Mr. Wang keep Yu Kenan in the women's team for a longer period, aiming to instill order and prevent future problems. Mr. Wang agreed, acknowledging Yu Kenan as a "top-notch seedling" with a powerful backhand.
He also noted Yu Kenan's diminished arrogance and diligent training with Zhang Caiwei, deeming the extended "favor" worthwhile. Mr. Wang then subtly hinted that he had seen through Teng Biao's earlier pretense with the bicycle. Eventually, Yu Kenan officially returned to the men's team. Teng Biao, observing his growth, presented him with a new training plan. Yu Kenan, having internalized Zhang Caiwei's advice, specifically requested to add "winning shot" practice to his regimen.
He admitted that his emotions were easily affected when he fell behind in points and proposed practicing by starting from a deficit, with the opponent holding the serve. Observing Yu Kenan’s focused practice on winning shots, Mr. Zheng warned Fu Jingchun that Yu Kenan would be his "greatest opponent." He underscored that there was only one top position in the national team, urging Fu Jingchun to maintain his relentless efforts to stay ahead.
Meanwhile, Fang Yue and Kang Ning returned from the Belgium Championship, having secured gold and silver medals for China. They brought back Belgian chocolates, distributing them to their teammates. Mr. He, in a cheerful mood due to their success, granted Xu Tan a rare fifteen-minute break. Xu Tan eagerly grabbed a chocolate from Fang Yue and immediately rushed off.
Puzzled by his hurried departure, Fang Yue was informed by another teammate that Xu Tan was currently under punishment and training with Mr. He. Liu Shi once again approached Qin Zhen, requesting him to become his personal coach. Qin Zhen, however, dismissed his previous encouraging remarks as "drunkard's words" not to be taken seriously, and refused. Undeterred, Liu Shi then sought help from Mr. Zheng.
But Mr. Zheng flatly rejected the idea, disparaging Qin Zhen as merely an assistant coach and unsuitable for a personal coaching role. That evening, Xu Tan meticulously admired the chocolate he had received. Ma Chuan approached, apologizing for his past behavior and attempting to persuade Xu Tan to share the treat, but Xu Tan firmly refused. During lunch, Fu Chuanzhi spoke with Mr. He, who confirmed Xu Tan’s significant progress.
Mr. He noted that Xu Tan, initially appearing "weak from the inside," was profoundly motivated by Fang Yue’s story and now displayed the intense "ping-pong fanatic" spirit that Fang Yue once had in the equipment room. Fu Chuanzhi, who was also Xu Tan's father, then personally visited Xu Tan in the equipment room to administer a test.
He set up a challenge, asking Xu Tan to hit a ball through a small gap created by tape and then strike another ball positioned behind it. This time, Xu Tan successfully executed the shot on his first attempt, demonstrating his marked improvement. Fu Chuanzhi advised Xu Tan that to control a game, one must first control the opponent, and to control the opponent, one must first control oneself, emphasizing that robust physical stamina was fundamental to achieving this control.
He then informed Xu Tan that his punishment was rescinded and he could officially return to the team the following day, instructing him to thank Mr. He and to feel free to use the equipment room whenever he wished to train there.
Episode 14 Recap
Before Xu Tan left Coach He's training facility, he respectfully bade farewell. Coach He, dismissing the authority of Fu Chuanzhi, insisted Xu Tan pass one final test: to lift the same barbell Xu Tan had lifted when they first met. Xu Tan, serious and mentally prepared, found the barbell to be completely weightless, remarking it was "lighter than a fart." Coach He then told him to "pack up and scram," adding a sarcastic comment about who would be punished next.
Coach He smiled in relief, and Xu Tan's respectful address of "Coach He" made him feel deeply touched. Coach He encouraged Xu Tan to return to the team the next day, stating that Lei Cheng must have missed him, and invited him to visit often if he enjoyed the place, expressing his pride in Xu Tan. Xu Tan then formally said, "Coach He, I'm leaving."
Lei Cheng gave his daughter, Lei Lei, a lengthy lecture about working hard and striving for honor and dignity, especially since her academic performance had declined after considering a shift to science. Lei Lei later found Xu Tan in the old storeroom, teasing him for "daring to cause trouble" and playfully suggesting he become an actor instead of a ping-pong player. They listened to music together.
When Lei Lei had to leave for evening self-study, Xu Tan offered her a box of chocolates he had saved, but she declined due to her rush. She asked him to look after her father and ensure he didn't drink. Back in the dorm, Ma Chuan was surprised to see Xu Tan return so early. Xu Tan shared the good news that Fu Chuanzhi had informed him he could resume training the following day.
A heavy weight was lifted from Ma Chuan's heart, and he was delighted, proposing they celebrate by eating Xu Tan's chocolates. However, Xu Tan refused, stating he was saving them for a specific purpose. Ma Chuan suspected Xu Tan was "up to something," but Xu Tan denied it and suggested they go eat noodles with soybean paste instead. Xu Tan's training regimen intensified.
Lei Cheng provided Xu Tan with detailed information on defensive playing styles, tailoring his training to Xu Tan's strengths rather than forcing a change in style. Xu Tan, acknowledging Lei Cheng's understanding and personalized approach, expressed his determination to master the new materials. Liu Shi, who had yet to find a coach willing to guide him, expressed his envy. Xu Tan reassured him, sharing some of Lei Cheng's materials and suggesting they learn together.
Teng Biao approached Lei Cheng, subtly offering him tea and initially feigning no particular agenda. He then guided the conversation towards Xu Tan's training plan, acknowledging that Xu Tan's practice on the first three strokes hadn't been ideal. Lei Cheng explained that while Xu Tan was a promising player with many strengths, his main weakness was a lack of offensive play, which was the current trend in ping-pong.
Seizing this, Teng Biao suggested pairing Xu Tan with a player exceptionally strong in the first three strokes to force Xu Tan into an offensive mindset. Lei Cheng quickly realized Teng Biao was proposing that Yu Kenan train with Xu Tan, understanding it was a mutually beneficial arrangement to address Yu Kenan's defensive weaknesses as well, and agreed to the idea.
Lei Cheng explained the proposed joint training to Xu Tan, emphasizing Yu Kenan's strength in the first three strokes and the complementary nature of their playing styles, assuring Xu Tan that both would improve. Xu Tan, however, voiced concern about Yu Kenan's willingness. As expected, Yu Kenan was resistant, complaining to Teng Biao that he refused to train with Xu Tan and felt it was merely a favor to return for the trophy incident.
Teng Biao dismissed Yu Kenan's "junior championships" and reminded him that his goal was to train for winning shots, which required stability. He explained that Xu Tan's strong defense could help Yu Kenan temper his impetuousness and settle down, asserting that Xu Tan possessed many strengths and should not be underestimated.
When Yu Kenan remained unwilling, Teng Biao revealed that Lei Cheng had made a solemn agreement with Fu Chuanzhi: if Xu Tan didn't perform well in the upcoming promotion and relegation matches, Lei Cheng would leave the national team. Initially indifferent, Yu Kenan was called "ungrateful" by Teng Biao, who insisted they must support Lei Cheng and Xu Tan. Convinced, Yu Kenan reluctantly agreed, though he expressed envy for Xu Tan having such a supportive coach as Lei Cheng.
Teng Biao warned Yu Kenan to play seriously against Xu Tan, or he would be sent back to train with the women's team. Before beginning their joint training, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan played an initial match, which Yu Kenan won 11-7. Lei Cheng found the score acceptable, acknowledging their existing skill differences. However, Yu Kenan, despite his win, remarked that Xu Tan, though slow to start, showed significant improvement during actual play.
Lei Cheng added that Yu Kenan also put considerable effort into winning that game. He then dismissed them for lunch, telling them to return for individual training while he and Mr. Teng discussed. Following a demanding training session, Zhang Caiwei approached Yu Kenan to return an item, offering a quick thank you before leaving shyly. Later, Yu Kenan asked Ma Chuan to deliver a box of chocolates to Zhang Caiwei from the fridge, promising to treat him to barbecue.
Yu Kenan specifically warned Ma Chuan not to touch his chocolate. That night, a hungry Ma Chuan, recalling Yu Kenan's warning, decided to eat a piece from Xu Tan's chocolate instead. In the process, he accidentally mixed up the two identical chocolate boxes. The next day, Ma Chuan delivered the chocolate to Zhang Caiwei, who, despite initially declining, accepted it upon learning it was from Yu Kenan.
Her friend noticed a missing piece and discovered a love letter inside, which was clearly a confession of love. Unaware of the mix-up, her friend assumed Yu Kenan was professing his love to Zhang Caiwei. Meanwhile, Xu Tan, also unaware of the mix-up, braved the rain to deliver his chocolate to Lei Lei. He quickly departed before she could open it. Upon opening the box later, Lei Lei was confused to find a pack of ibuprofen and its instructions.
As Xu Tan and Yu Kenan continued their separate training, Lei Cheng instructed Xu Tan on how to counter chop shots, emphasizing focus and not missing any points. Meanwhile, Mr. Zheng continued to neglect Liu Shi's requests for guidance, merely telling him to carry on and implying Liu Shi was going too easy on Fu Jingchun, whom he pushed relentlessly.
Lei Cheng later observed Xu Tan's training in the equipment room with a ball machine and identified a critical psychological issue: Xu Tan performed flawlessly when practicing alone but lost composure when Lei Cheng was present. Lei Cheng explained that being a good player requires excellent psychological quality, tactical skills, and the ability to control the game. He stressed the importance of developing an assertive "aura" to intimidate opponents, instructing Xu Tan to shout "Sa!" after scoring to assert dominance and control the opponent. He urged Xu Tan to try again with this newfound confidence.
Episode 15 Recap
Fu Chuanzhi spoke earnestly with Qin Zhen, acknowledging Qin Zhen's unyielding spirit and deep connection to the national Ping Pong team. Fu Chuanzhi reminded him that his career as a player was only one part of his journey, and now, as a coach, he had the crucial responsibility to pass on his experiences, lessons, and even his regrets to the next generation of players. Accepting this mantle, Qin Zhen agreed to become Liu Shi's coach.
Liu Shi, previously lacking a dedicated coach, was overjoyed to finally have one. Qin Zhen quickly pointed out that despite Liu Shi's decent chopping technique, his fundamental skills were lacking, and he needed to train from the basics. Qin Zhen advised Liu Shi to switch his paddle's rubber from long pips to short pips, explaining that short pips offers greater elasticity and stronger anti-spin ability, enabling a more aggressive chop-and-attack style with faster ball speed and stronger attacking power.
He promised to develop a detailed training plan for Liu Shi. During a practice session in the old storage room, Xu Tan expressed frustration, feeling unadapted to his current playing style and struggling to regain confidence. His training with Yu Kenan had certainly enhanced his skills, but his team ranking remained largely unchanged. Yu Kenan, observing Xu Tan, commented on his lack of enthusiasm, urging him to be more expressive.
Objectively, Yu Kenan was not optimistic about Xu Tan's current form, and although Teng Biao outwardly disagreed, he harbored significant private concerns. Meanwhile, the misunderstanding surrounding the chocolates continued to unfold. Yu Kenan encountered Zhang Caiwei and Xiao Jun in an elevator and awkwardly tried to ask about the chocolate Fatty had delivered to Zhang Caiwei. However, Zhang Caiwei quickly pulled Xiao Jun away before Yu Kenan could finish his question, leaving him perplexed.
Back in their dorm, Xiao Jun pressed Zhang Caiwei about her feelings for Yu Kenan, to which Zhang Caiwei shyly confessed to "a little" interest. Separately, Xu Tan received an excited phone call from Lei Lei, who mentioned the chocolate he sent her, finding "something weird inside." Xu Tan denied putting anything by mistake.
Lei Lei admitted it was her first such gift but said she couldn't use it now, jokingly suggesting she might return it or even give it to her father. Xu Tan quickly rejected these ideas, urging her to simply discard it if she didn't like it. Lei Lei then ended the call, citing unfinished homework. With the promotion and relegation competition just two weeks away, Mr. Zheng gathered the team to announce the rules for the upcoming internal selection round-robin.
This pre-competition was critical, as the top eight players from the second team would qualify to compete against the bottom four from the first team, with only four spots available to join the first team. Mr. Zheng encouraged capable players to seize the opportunity and others to use it to assess their own standings. Before delving into the rules, Coach Gong provided a brief history of Ping Pong balls, from champagne corks to modern 40mm balls.
Mr. Zheng then explained that these historical balls would serve as "chips" for a betting system. The competition would be a 5-point scale, where the first to reach five points wins. Different balls had varying point values, with the oldest corks being worth the most, and corks specifically reserved for coaches. Mr. Fu Chuanzhi clarified that this system was designed to engage coaches and help both players and coaches better understand each other's strengths and weaknesses.
Players could bet their points on themselves or their opponents, with the player who held more points gaining the advantage of an additional serve. To prevent foul play, betting would close once opponents were announced. The top eight players with the highest chip totals would directly qualify for the promotion and relegation competition. Liu Shi, seeking a strategic edge, asked Xu Tan to help him apply "Tian Ji's strategy for horse racing" to maximize his betting returns.
Xu Tan, drawing on his practice experience with the Second Team, calculated winning rates for Liu Shi against various opponents. Liu Shi was pleased with the projections, but noticed Xu Tan had placed very few points on himself. Xu Tan replied that his personal points were less important than making it into the top eight, affirming that he would do his best. Liu Shi, in turn, encouraged him to believe in himself.
Before the selection matches, Teng Biao presented Yu Kenan with a new paddle, a gift from his father, complete with a cherished sponge. Yu Kenan, though feigning disinterest, accepted it, and Teng Biao offered to glue the paddle for him. Separately, Yu Kenan and Fu Jingchun exchanged good luck wishes, with Yu Kenan conceding the symbolic "center table" to Fu Jingchun for now, promising they would meet in the First Team.
Elsewhere, Mr. Zheng coached Fu Jingchun on his serves, but Fu Jingchun experienced cramps and was sent to rest. On the day of the competition, Xu Tan found himself facing Fu Jingchun in his first match. Feeling a surge of confidence after Lei Cheng, Teng Biao, and even Yu Kenan placed bets on him, with Yu Kenan specifically adding 80 points to give Xu Tan an extra serve advantage, Xu Tan played with newfound self-assurance.
During a break, Qin Zhen checked on Liu Shi, who was still adjusting to his new short pips. Liu Shi expressed his profound happiness at finally having a coach to provide guidance and care during matches. Fu Jingchun, having dismissed his minor sprain as inconsequential earlier, continued to play. However, the intense exertion exacerbated his ankle pain, leading to his defeat against Yu Kenan. Immediately after the match, Fu Jingchun collapsed on the court.
A doctor examined him and explained to Mr. Zheng that Fu Jingchun had a fractured piece of cartilage in his ankle that had moved out of the joint. While usually benign for ordinary people, for an athlete, there was a small but critical risk that if the fragment moved into the joint, it could cause irreversible damage. The doctor recommended surgery but noted it would mean missing the upcoming promotion and relegation competition.
Concerned about opponents exploiting this weakness, Mr. Zheng requested the doctor keep the diagnosis confidential. The doctor agreed to prescribe medication but urged Mr. Zheng to encourage Fu Jingchun to make a decision quickly. When Fu Jingchun later asked Mr. Zheng about his condition, Mr. Zheng downplayed it, calling it a serious but normal sprain that wouldn't affect the competition, a reassurance Fu Jingchun readily believed.
The internal selection competition concluded with Xu Tan qualifying for the top eight, securing a substantial points advantage. Liu Shi, under Qin Zhen's diligent coaching, achieved significant progress and excellent results. After the matches, Fu Jingchun complimented Yu Kenan's impressive performance, lamenting that they couldn't have a better game, to which Yu Kenan reiterated his hope to see him in the First Team.
The morning after the internal selection, Liu Shi, bright and early, knocked on Qin Zhen's door, rousing his hungover coach for their morning jog. Liu Shi highlighted the importance of the promotion and relegation competition for both of them and made a "small request" that Qin Zhen abstain from drinking until after the competition, promising to drink with him then.
Qin Zhen initially grumbled about his disciple trying to control him, but Liu Shi playfully threatened to involve Mr. Fu Chuanzhi if he wouldn't comply. Qin Zhen, finally giving in, jokingly remarked on the role reversal, stating that Liu Shi was "managing me now." This interaction solidified their evolving bond of mutual support.
Episode 16 Recap
Zhang Caiwei found herself deeply affected by what she believed was a "love letter" attached to the chocolate Yu Kenan had given her. Encouraged by her roommate, Xiao Jun, who was excitedly preparing for a date with her "badminton guy" and teasing Zhang Caiwei for her procrastination in love, Zhang Caiwei decided to confront Yu Kenan. She found him at the training center, accompanied by Xu Tan, who was also heading there.
Upon seeing her, Yu Kenan, preoccupied with his upcoming promotion and relegation match, was visibly annoyed and asked why she was looking for him, stating he needed to train. When Zhang Caiwei offered to share her experience from previous matches, Yu Kenan brushed her off, claiming the men's and women's teams were different and he didn't need her advice. Growing increasingly frustrated, Zhang Caiwei pressed him about the chocolate he sent and "the thing stuffed inside."
Yu Kenan innocently replied that the chocolate was for her to eat, and the other item was simply to make her feel more comfortable, with no hidden meaning. Infuriated, Zhang Caiwei accused him of toying with her and stormed off. Later, she confided in Xiao Jun, expressing her anger that Yu Kenan wouldn't admit to writing the "love letter" she was convinced he sent. Xiao Jun, however, still found it hard to believe Yu Kenan would act that way.
Lei Lei was facing academic challenges with her upcoming college entrance exam. Her mock exam results in science subjects were not ideal, leading her teachers to suggest she consider art exams as an alternative path. She wanted to consult her father, Lei Cheng, but he was in a meeting where the eight-man roster for the Second team's promotion and relegation competition was being announced. Yu Kenan placed first, and Xu Tan was seventh, showing significant improvement.
Unable to take Lei Lei's calls during the meeting, Lei Cheng later found her phone turned off, which worried him. He asked Xu Tan to go to his house to check on her. Xu Tan waited outside Lei Lei's home for a long time before she finally returned. Lei Lei explained that her teachers were pushing her towards art exam training, which she found tedious, and revealed her true desire to switch from science to liberal arts.
Xu Tan encouraged her to follow her heart, echoing her own advice to him, and told her to simply talk to her father directly about it. Lei Lei, in turn, motivated Xu Tan to strive for the First team, citing Lei Cheng's belief in his potential. As Xu Tan was leaving, he tried to subtly bring up the topic of the "chocolate" again, still hoping to clarify the misunderstanding.
However, Lei Lei again misinterpreted his question, assuming he was asking about the cold medicine he had previously given her, and replied that she hadn't needed it yet, leaving Xu Tan utterly confused. With her feelings released, Zhang Caiwei found it hard to simply retract them. Following Xiao Jun's mischievous suggestion, Zhang Caiwei borrowed Xiao Jun's boyfriend to stage a scene. They walked past Yu Kenan, acting intimately.
Yu Kenan was visibly shocked and returned to his dorm unsettled, sulking all night. The following morning during training, a restless Yu Kenan approached Xu Tan, pacing anxiously. He hypothetically asked Xu Tan if a girl would like him if he gave her a box of chocolate and she didn't respond.
Xu Tan, reflecting on his own lingering uncertainty about the chocolate-related misunderstanding with Lei Lei and her lack of explicit rejection, thoughtfully replied that she likely did, as she hadn't explicitly said no. Yu Kenan then wondered aloud if he should be more proactive. The next day, Yu Kenan, driven by his renewed determination, went directly to the women's dorm to find Zhang Caiwei.
Xiao Jun, ecstatic, rushed back to brief Zhang Caiwei, reiterating her advice to stay calm, maintain a high stance, and wait for Yu Kenan to confess first. Yu Kenan led Zhang Caiwei to a quieter spot and immediately confronted her about the boy from the previous night, displaying obvious jealousy. He expressed concern about violating team rules, asking why they were "flaunting so ostentatiously."
When Zhang Caiwei finally revealed that the boy was Xiao Jun's boyfriend, Yu Kenan was secretly relieved. He then directly asked Zhang Caiwei, "Do you like me?" Zhang Caiwei, still confused by the "love letter," retorted, accusing him of writing "that nonsense" and then asking if she liked him. Yu Kenan denied writing the letter, pointing out the "ugly" handwriting wasn't his and adding that he would never write a love letter to someone he truly liked.
Realizing the misunderstanding, Zhang Caiwei felt foolish and turned to leave, but Yu Kenan pursued her, embraced her from behind, and confessed his feelings. Fu Jingchun continued his intense training for the promotion and relegation match, pushing himself despite a significant leg injury, of which he was unaware of its true severity. Mr Zheng, who was secretly aware of Fu Jingchun's cartilage injury, maintained a strict demeanor but was deeply pained to see him train so hard.
He personally applied medicine to Fu Jingchun's ankle, asking him to endure the discomfort. Fu Jingchun, feeling uncertain about the upcoming match, suggested making up for missed training, believing it would boost his confidence. However, Mr Zheng advised him to prioritize rest and adjust his mindset, emphasizing that a few extra training sessions wouldn't change his performance. Fu Jingchun admitted his lack of confidence against the First team players, especially with his injury.
Mr Zheng, with a heavy heart, reassured Fu Jingchun, telling him that regardless of his injury or the outcome, he would always be "number one" to him. Discussions among the players about the upcoming promotion and relegation match were rife. While some considered Fu Jingchun and Yu Kenan the strongest contenders for the First team, others identified Xu Tan as a potential dark horse, acknowledging his rapid improvement.
There was a general consensus on the difficulty of getting into the First team, with a reminder that even the First team's lowest-ranked players were formidable, and historically, it was even common for none of the Second team players to advance. After his confession, Yu Kenan's mood was exceptionally good, and he and Zhang Caiwei officially started their relationship.
Earlier, Fu Jingchun and Yu Kenan had wished each other good luck, with Fu Jingchun joking about Yu Kenan's "daydreaming" of challenging Kang Ning for the top spot in the First team, while admitting his own ambition to do the same.
The night before the competition, Yu Kenan and Zhang Caiwei, fresh in their new love, exchanged text messages all night, which led to Yu Kenan arriving at the promotion and relegation match with a poor mental state and lack of concentration, a fact Teng Biao quickly noticed with concern. Meanwhile, Xiao Jun, who had been instrumental in bringing Yu Kenan and Zhang Caiwei together, found herself facing a difficult decision.
She confessed to Zhang Caiwei that she was returning to Team Zhejiang because she found the intensity and pressure of the national team's First team too overwhelming. Unlike Zhang Caiwei, who had a clear goal of winning championships, Xiao Jun felt she couldn't keep up with the demanding pace despite her best efforts. This decision meant she would be separated from her "badminton guy," her boyfriend. Zhang Caiwei listened sympathetically as Xiao Jun expressed her yearning to go home.
In other news, Xu Tan received a call from Lei Lei, who happily informed him that Lei Cheng had agreed to her transfer to liberal arts and thanked Xu Tan for his encouragement. Xu Tan felt a slight deflation, as the chocolate misunderstanding still lingered, but didn't press the issue. Lei Lei also wished Xu Tan luck for the promotion and relegation match, promising him a lamb spine hot pot if he made it into the First team.
On the day of the promotion and relegation competition, the rules were announced, with Teng Biao in charge of recording results and a strict warning against falsification. Despite the team's initial positive outlook with a 70% win rate in other matches, Yu Kenan's first match saw him unexpectedly lose two-nil to Zhai Jia Chen, an opponent he typically would not lose to, further alarming Teng Biao about his unusual performance.
Episode 17 Recap
Xu Tan, noticing Yu Kenan's cheerfulness, probed whether he was happy about Zhang Caiwei. Xu Tan had observed their dynamic for a while and guessed Zhang Caiwei was pursuing him, but Yu Kenan corrected him, admitting he was the one doing the courting. Yu Kenan dismissed the importance of who initiated the pursuit, stating that when love is present, such details are irrelevant.
He then playfully read aloud a love letter: "Looking up at the stars in the sky, listening to the night breeze, I miss you so much. At this moment, I look forward to it. So far, yet so near. How lucky. In days chasing my dream, you are the one protecting me."
Xu Tan reacted with surprise, asking how Yu Kenan came to possess it, only to realize with a jolt that it was his own letter, intended for Lei Lei. Yu Kenan explained that the chocolates had been mixed up. He recounted that his own box, which was mistakenly sent to Lei Lei, contained painkillers, while Xu Tan's box, which he had received, was missing a piece.
Xu Tan was astonished, questioning how a piece could be missing from a brand-new box. Meanwhile, in the dormitory, Ma Chuan and Liu Shi were enjoying a butter hot pot. Ma Chuan offered some to Xu Tan upon his return. Xu Tan sat down and stared intently at Ma Chuan, making him so uncomfortable that Ma Chuan excused himself to the bathroom. Xu Tan followed, demanding an explanation.
Ultimately, Xu Tan, visibly furious, confronted Ma Chuan and threw him out of the dormitory for eating his chocolate. Liu Shi advised Ma Chuan to find another room for a couple of days, remarking on Xu Tan's intense reaction to a missing piece of chocolate. The promotion and relegation matches were in full swing.
Yu Kenan, still recovering from his initial loss, learned that Zhang Caiwei would come to watch him play the next day, which finally settled his anxious mood. Because of his first match loss, Zhang Caiwei had not paid attention to him for a long time, so her promise to watch the match brought a rare satisfied and slightly shy smile to Yu Kenan's face as he hid under the covers.
Xu Tan, now aware of the chocolate mix-up, tried desperately to reach Lei Lei, but her phone was busy. She was speaking with her father, Lei Cheng, who was in a meeting and couldn't commit to visiting her school to finalize her stream change from science to art. Lei Lei, frustrated by her father's repeated delays, ended the call abruptly, insisting he must go in two days.
When Xu Tan finally managed to call Lei Lei, he apologized, explaining the chocolate had been sent to the wrong person. Lei Lei revealed her confusion upon finding painkillers in the chocolates, asking if his intended gift had contained something equally strange. Xu Tan, hesitant to admit it was a love letter, vaguely described it as "some mathematics… It’s hard to describe it. Just stop asking about it." Lei Lei, sensing his discomfort, accepted his evasiveness and ended the call.
During the ongoing matches, Yu Kenan, motivated by Zhang Caiwei's presence, played with renewed vigor. Conversely, Xu Tan felt a profound anxiety, struggling to execute his shots, which affected his performance. His master, Lei Cheng, noticed his distracted state, attributing it to either physical tension or mental unease, stating his play was "not clean." He advised Xu Tan to clear his mind and play freely, emphasizing the six-word principle: "Person present, ball present, heart present", to play with "soul."
After her match, Zhang Caiwei approached Yu Kenan, expressing her sadness over Xiao Jun's retirement to the provincial team and the impending separation. She complimented Yu Kenan's handsome performance but regretfully informed him she couldn't watch him play the next day due to her own training and seeing Xiao Jun off. Yu Kenan, disheartened, confided in Zhang Caiwei about his mistake of returning the love letter to Xu Tan.
He worried it had affected Xu Tan's mental state, noting his poor performance that day compared to the previous one, potentially jeopardizing his chance to join the First team. Zhang Caiwei acknowledged his good intentions but suggested they brainstorm ways to make amends. Yu Kenan, feeling helpless, even asked if he should play on Xu Tan's behalf. Xu Tan had achieved significant progress, reaching fourth place and needing only one more win to secure a spot in the First team.
However, his confidence waned when he learned his final opponent would be Yu Kenan. Yu Kenan, having already secured his spot in the First team, was reminded by Teng Biao to take the match seriously. As the game unfolded, Yu Kenan initially maintained a lead. However, he recalled a past conversation where he was told that if Xu Tan failed to improve his results, Lei Cheng's position would be affected.
Remembering his guilt and knowing that even if he lost, it wouldn't affect his First team spot, Yu Kenan began deliberately allowing Xu Tan to score. His intentional misses were glaringly obvious to everyone, including the coaches and Xu Tan himself. Xu Tan, however, refused to accept a victory through such means. He viewed Yu Kenan's actions as a profound insult. This led to a bizarre exchange where both players openly let each other score.
Fu Chuanzhi, witnessing their unsportsmanlike conduct, immediately halted the match and removed them from the court. Outside the arena, Xu Tan angrily confronted Yu Kenan, accusing him of being ungrateful and belittling his abilities. Yu Kenan retorted, claiming he only helped because of Xu Tan's poor condition and that he could beat "two of him" three years prior, also blaming Xu Tan for potentially implicating his master.
Xu Tan insisted that his ability to win was his own business and Yu Kenan's actions were humiliating. Fu Chuanzhi intervened, scolding them for continuing their dispute off the court. During the official announcement of the promotion and relegation results, Fu Chuanzhi declared that Dong Yu, Zhang Ran, Peng Shan, and Chen Ke would be relegated from the First team to the Second team. Fu Jingchun, ranked first in the Second team, successfully joined the First team.
However, Yu Kenan, ranked second, and Xu Tan, ranked fourth, were both disqualified from the ranking due to their passive play and "blaspheming the match." Their spots were subsequently awarded to Ma Chuan and Liu Shi, who were ranked fifth and sixth, respectively, entering the First team by luck. Fu Chuanzhi then called Yu Kenan and Xu Tan aside, asking them if they still desired to play.
When they both affirmed their passion for the sport, he pressed them to honestly explain what went wrong in their final match. Both admitted to intentionally letting the other score. Fu Chuanzhi sternly admonished them, stating that a lack of fighting spirit and deliberately giving points was a grave disrespect to their opponent and a major taboo in table tennis. He emphasized that as members of the national team, disrespecting the game was more disappointing than losing.
He warned them that severe punishment from the team was inevitable and they should mentally prepare for it. In a subsequent coaching meeting, Fu Chuanzhi announced the promotion of Zheng Hao and Qin Zhen to First team coaches, extending congratulations. The meeting then shifted to the disciplinary action for Xu Tan and Yu Kenan. Teng Biao, advocating for leniency, suggested that the incident stemmed from youthful impulsiveness and proposed a focus on criticism and education rather than a public spectacle.
Lei Cheng, however, took a hardline stance, asserting that every national team member must take full responsibility for their actions. He deemed their conduct in the solemn promotion and relegation match unacceptable and demanded severe punishment to deter others and prevent a negative example for the whole team. Teng Biao argued that the incident had no serious consequences, with promotions already determined and the players showing remorse.
Lei Cheng, acknowledging his own "lack of oversight" in Xu Tan's training, accepted full responsibility and stated he would comply with any decision. Fu Chuanzhi concluded the meeting by assuring that all opinions would be carefully considered. Fu Jingchun, now a First team member, immediately resumed intense training, aiming for the World Table Tennis Championships qualification event. During a session, his foot injury flared up again.
The team doctor assured him it wasn't serious but advised rest and to avoid overtraining to prevent re-injury. However, Zheng Hao downplayed the doctor's caution, urging Fu Jingchun to seize the rare opportunity of the World Table Tennis Championships qualification event right after joining the First team. Despite his pain, Fu Jingchun, determined, returned to his training. Zheng Hao still did not reveal the full truth about Fu Jingchun's injury, likely because he didn't want Fu Jingchun to miss this World Table Tennis Championships.
Episode 18 Recap
Zhang Caiwei and Yu Kenan, now in a relationship, met for a date. Zhang Caiwei mentioned her teammate Xiao Jun, who had moved to Singapore to train. She pondered whether Xiao Jun's situation, lacking the ideal conditions, made her decision to train abroad a retreat or a way out. Yu Kenan countered, implying that some players might lack the strength but still seek opportunities abroad, seeing it as a retreat rather than a path forward.
He highlighted Zhang Caiwei's fortune to remain on the national team with the best coaches and systematic plans to win championships, encouraging her to focus on the upcoming Olympics and win a gold medal, as he had yet to see her receive an award. Their closeness was soon noticed by teammates Ma Chuan and Liu Shi, who gossiped about the couple as they returned to their dorms.
Their conversation was overheard by Coach Teng Biao, who, upon inquiring, received only nervous evasions from the two players. Teng Biao later witnessed Yu Kenan and Zhang Caiwei together himself. After Zhang Caiwei left, Teng Biao sternly reminded Yu Kenan that accumulating three late marks for training could result in being sent back to the provincial team, and that outright striking was a severe breach.
He emphasized that in the national team, career and romance rarely advanced in tandem, urging Yu Kenan not to jeopardize his future for fleeting pleasure. Yu Kenan, defiant yet resigned, agreed to accept any punishment. Meanwhile, Zhang Caiwei’s coach, Wang, also addressed her relationship with Yu Kenan, showing her documents related to the Beijing Olympics. He reminded her that the Beijing Olympics represented her final opportunity for a championship title in her career.
He expressed his concern that sacrificing her career for an uncertain relationship would be a great pity, given her years of hard work. Although Zhang Caiwei promised that their relationship would not interfere with her training or performance, Coach Wang dismissed her assurances as hollow, reiterating that only her actions could truly demonstrate her commitment. He assured her he would secure opportunities for her, but the outcome would ultimately rest on her own shoulders.
In the aftermath of the relegation match, which had left Xu Tan disheartened, Coach Lei Cheng spent an evening drinking with him. Lei Cheng reminisced about their first meeting in Liaoning when Xu Tan was a persistent ten-year-old, following him everywhere to convince his parents to let him play. He gently probed if Xu Tan found their current provincial team less comfortable than the Beijing team.
Lei Cheng also shared his wisdom, telling Xu Tan that he was now an adult who needed to make his own decisions and bear his own responsibilities, as he wouldn't always have someone to help him. That night, Lei Cheng kept his decision to leave the national team to himself, secretly bidding Xu Tan farewell in his heart, knowing that revealing it would only cause more distress.
The next morning, Xu Tan woke up with a terrible hangover, only to learn from his roommate that Lei Cheng had resigned. Rushing to find his mentor, Xu Tan tearfully apologized, blaming himself for Lei Cheng's departure. However, Lei Cheng reassured him that his decision was not due to Xu Tan's performance.
He explained that if he continued to stay, he wouldn't be able to provide significant help in improving Xu Tan's skills, considering it "retiring at the height of his career" and taking advantage of the opportunity to spend time with his daughter Lei Lei as she prepared for her college entrance exam. As they parted ways, Lei Cheng imparted a final piece of advice: "Don't admit defeat," a motto for both of them to live by.
Later, Lei Lei approached Xu Tan, expressing her gratitude for him "returning her dad to her." Xu Tan then went to Fu Chuanzhi’s office, proactively accepting any punishment. Coach Teng Biao, also present, voiced his frustration that Lei Cheng's departure meant the burden of the team now fell on him.
He also suggested that the match-throwing punishment seemed overly harsh, believing Yu Kenan bore the primary responsibility, while Xu Tan, usually an obedient and disciplined player, would not have acted that way unless pushed to the limit. Fu Chuanzhi, however, revealed his intention to use this as an opportunity to truly test and train Xu Tan, adding that if Xu Tan didn't feel the urgency now, he would give up on him.
He then redirected Teng Biao's concern, reminding him to focus on his own disciple, Yu Kenan, who was now taking over from Xia Ke. Yu Kenan's punishment involved being sent to a remote village to take care of pigs. He traveled there by an electric tricycle, observing the once-muddy roads that were now paved. Upon arrival, a helper brought him to Old Madam Wang's house, where the little girl initially mistook him for "Brother Xia."
The helper then informed Old Madam Wang that Yu Kenan would be replacing Xia Ke, another national table tennis player. Yu Kenan immediately found the small, simple house "too rustic." On his first day, while cleaning the smelly pigsty, the little girl startled him by feeding the pigs, causing him to slip and get pig manure on his hand. To his dismay, there was no running water.
The little girl kindly offered him a towel and a small amount of their precious water from a basin, urging him to use it sparingly. Frustrated, Yu Kenan felt he couldn't endure another moment there and tried to call for help, but his phone had no signal.
He climbed upstairs to find a signal, eventually calling his father, who only lectured him about his poor performance and the shame he brought to the family, causing Yu Kenan to hang up in anger. The next morning, Yu Kenan was repulsed by the hard steamed buns and other simple food on the table. With no water in the house, he went to the village provision store to buy mineral water to wash his clothes and some biscuits.
The shop owner, observing Yu Kenan's free spending on mineral water, inquired if he was Old Madam Wang's city relative, noting the resemblance to the previous young man. He then suggested Yu Kenan help pay for the meat Old Madam Wang had bought on credit, explaining that the old lady and her granddaughter struggled to even afford meat. When Yu Kenan returned, Old Madam Wang and her granddaughter were back.
The little girl, worried that Yu Kenan hadn't eaten all day and fearing he wouldn't like their food, had gone to the mountain to pick wild fruit for him, scratching her arm in the process. Witnessing this act of kindness, Yu Kenan's negative emotions softened. He inspected her small wound and exchanged his newly bought biscuits for her wild fruit.
They then sat together, shucking corn, and Yu Kenan told her that only champions were as fast as he was at shucking corn. The little girl then reminded him to add a spoonful of mold removing powder to the pig feed. Meanwhile, Xu Tan was assigned to the boxing gym. The boxing coach, initially dismissive of Xu Tan's small physique, joked about him being there for yoga.
Xu Tan was designated as a "training partner" and general assistant, responsible for chores like collecting dirty clothes. During his first attempt to hit a heavy bag, his technique was mocked. The coach then made him spar with a boxer named Da Zhi, who initially hesitated, fearing he might injure Xu Tan. However, Xu Tan was quickly knocked out.
The coach criticized Xu Tan’s lack of power and poor footwork, instructing him to focus on practicing his footwork on the rope ladder. He also implied that ping-pong players lacked strength, jokingly attributing the loss of an Olympic gold medal to their supposed weakness. Xu Tan, though bruised, vowed to get stronger and "teach him a lesson." Xu Tan diligently cleaned the gym and continued his physical training, using boxing exercises to improve his balance and fitness.
He slept in a small compartment in the second hall, warned by a staff member about past burglaries. One night, someone bumped into him in the dark, which he briefly mistook for a hooligan. Despite the challenging environment and the initial setbacks, Xu Tan showed remarkable perseverance in his training.
Episode 19 Recap
The International Table Tennis Federation announced new rules for team matches, requiring single players to also manage doubles. This meant coaches had to balance both singles and doubles training, aiming for comprehensive development among the main players, as the doubles point in the third game became crucial. Based on current assessments, Ye Zhen Xin was considered most suitable for doubles, with Leng Yi, Ma Yu Yang, and new talent Fu Jingchun also in consideration.
Additionally, Xia Ke had returned to the team and should not be overlooked. Fu Jingchun, concerned about a recurring ankle sprain, asked Coach Zheng if he could postpone his training plan for two days. However, Coach Zheng insisted that Fu Jingchun, having been specifically named by Coach Fu as a doubles candidate, must perform exceptionally well to secure his spot, especially with Xia Ke, one of the top national players, now back.
Coach Zheng advised Fu Jingchun to "soldier on" for now and promised to discuss his injury with the team doctor later. Xu Tan continued his chores at the boxing gym, often finding himself called into the ring for sparring sessions. Despite his protests and concerns about his injuries, he was made to fight without protective gear. His footwork had improved significantly, but he was still no match for the much larger and more muscular boxers, often surrendering quickly.
One boxer even told him he wasn't welcome and should leave. Lei Lei, sent by Lei Cheng who was worried about Xu Tan, visited the gym. Seeing Xu Tan's injuries, she was upset and urged him, "If they hit you again, hit them back. Forget about the rules." Xu Tan, however, was realistic, pointing out, "Their arms are twice as big as mine. I'm no match for them."
Lei Lei told him not to tell Lei Cheng, who would be heartbroken. Before leaving, she gave Xu Tan a CD, telling him to keep it as motivational songs and return it once he had "won against them." The bullying at the gym continued, with one boxer rudely throwing sweaty clothes and towels at Xu Tan to wash. Despite being provoked, Xu Tan, though contemplating retaliation, did not fight back. That night, Xu Tan was stirred by sounds of punching.
He found a national boxing team member, a friend of Coach Liu, training alone. The boxer, apologetic for the noise, offered to switch to a quieter training method. Xu Tan, captivated, admitted he was interested in learning but had no one to teach him. The boxer, noting Xu Tan’s good footwork and defense, gave him some basic instructions. They discussed the differences between ping-pong and boxing.
The boxer shared that while ping-pong is a national pride, boxers were often viewed with disdain. He confessed that boxing changed him from being self-conscious to confident, making him believe he is the strongest on the ring and that he must keep punching, no matter how many times he is knocked down or how formidable the opponent.
Later, speaking with Lei Lei on the phone, Xu Tan happily reported that he finally had someone teaching him boxing, and his arms had grown stronger. He admitted he was still no match for experienced boxers but vowed to "teach him a good lesson for sure" if he ever got the chance. Xia Ke officially returned to the national team. Coach Fu arranged a match between Xia Ke and Fu Jingchun for them to get acquainted.
During the match, Xia Ke displayed incredible explosive power, quickly overpowering Fu Jingchun within the first three strokes, demonstrating his formidable strength despite his long break from formal training. Meanwhile, Liu Shi and Ma Chuan, now under Coach Qin Zhen, were subjected to an intense regimen of playing different opponents daily, consistently losing and feeling utterly defeated.
Ma Chuan voiced their frustration, asking Coach Qin if they were just perpetual training partners, to which Qin Zhen responded, urging them to improve their mindset and learn from the experience, suggesting they might one day be the ones being trained. After days of relentless defeats, Liu Shi and Ma Chuan realized the immense gap between their skill level and that of the First team.
One day, when Liu Shi twisted his ankle again during practice, Coach Qin, finding them slacking, finally allowed them to play against each other. To their surprise, they found their skills had improved significantly, particularly Liu Shi, who exhibited a newfound ability to execute quick chops, seemingly mastering it spontaneously. Coach Qin, however, quickly pointed out that these improvements came from playing against top opponents. He corrected Liu Shi's chop technique, emphasizing using footwork before the waist to prevent injury.
Recognizing Liu Shi's advantageous left-hand play and high-quality serves, Coach Qin suggested he consider focusing on a doubles career path, deeming it more promising than singles. Liu Shi, excited, eagerly asked Coach Qin to teach him some moves, even offering to buy him a drink, while playfully sparring with Ma Chuan about who was better suited for doubles.
In the countryside, Yu Kenan was gradually adjusting to rural life, even eagerly rushing to collect water when the village broadcast announced its return. However, one night, he was restless, constantly checking his phone for signal. He overheard the elderly woman scolding the little girl, who was crying because the pigs had fallen ill. Villagers suspected food poisoning, likely from forgetting to add mold removing powder.
Yu Kenan, recalling the little girl's earlier reminder that he had forgotten amidst the excitement of a call from Cai Wei, felt deep remorse. He knew these pigs were the family’s sole hope for survival. Despite the nearest vet station being over twenty miles away and no transport available at night, Yu Kenan, ignoring his own falls and injuries, trekked through the mountains in the dark, desperately seeking help.
The next morning, the grandmother and little girl, mistaking the vet for a pig thief, were startled to find him at the pigsty. The vet then revealed that Yu Kenan had "broken my door in the middle night and dragged me all the way here." Thanks to Yu Kenan's efforts, the pigs were treated in time and were recovering. Seeing Yu Kenan asleep from exhaustion, the little girl affectionately placed her small red flower on his clothes.
Feeling more at home, Yu Kenan later built a simple ping-pong table out of a stone slab and bricks, teaching the children how to play. He even playfully named the piglets after his friends and coaches: the fattest "Fatty," a silly one "Liu Shi," the long-legged one "Chun," the smallest "Xu Tan," and the big sow "Teng Biao."
Lei Lei, now studying arts, had shown considerable improvement in English and Chinese, but her math remained a weakness as she faced the upcoming college entrance exam. One day after school, her estranged mother, who had abandoned her and Lei Cheng years ago, suddenly appeared. Her mother expressed guilt and offered numerous gifts, including a new MP3 player and skincare products, along with a bank card, trying to compensate for her absence.
Lei Lei, however, firmly rejected these gestures, stating that she and Lei Cheng were doing fine and she didn't need money or gifts. She confronted her mother, saying, "Since you've abandoned us in the first place, you should stop bothering us," before walking away abruptly. Overwhelmed with emotion, Lei Lei called Xu Tan, who noticed her distress. She confided that she was "tired" from the pressures of preparing for her college entrance exam.
Xu Tan offered comfort, telling her not to put too much pressure on herself and assuring her that a "cleaner's position" would always be open for her at the boxing gym if she ever needed it. He also encouraged her to share any troubles with him directly.
Episode 20 Recap
Unable to reach Yu Kenan, Zhang Caiwei sought out Teng Biao to inquire if he had heard from him. She did not know that Yu Kenan was in a rural area with no signal, making communication difficult. Zhang Caiwei seemed worried that Yu Kenan might break up with her and wanted a definite answer, explaining she had some questions she wanted to ask him clearly in person.
Teng Biao suggested that Yu Kenan was likely too preoccupied cursing him to contact anyone and probed Zhang Caiwei, asking if Yu Kenan hadn't contacted her either. Zhang Caiwei clarified that she wasn't being clingy but simply wanted to know when Yu Kenan would return to speak with him directly. Teng Biao offered to convey her message if Yu Kenan got in touch.
Seizing the opportunity, Teng Biao advised Zhang Caiwei that it would be best to resolve the matter with Yu Kenan as soon as possible, emphasizing that for young people, while being serious about relationships is good, one should not be overly rigid and "when it's time, let it go." Zhang Caiwei questioned if Yu Kenan had discussed breaking up with him, which Teng Biao denied.
He elaborated that he and Mr. Wang agreed their priority should be achieving the best results in their careers, not getting distracted by personal relationships. Zhang Caiwei thanked him and departed. At the boxing gym, a boxer took a CD that Lei Lei had given Xu Tan, finding the music enjoyable and refusing to return it immediately.
Another boxer then seized the CD, taunted Xu Tan about it being a gift from a "young lady," and tossed it to the ground when Xu Tan attempted to reclaim it. This act completely enraged Xu Tan, who declared his intent to fight them. The assistant coach, Da Zhi, intervened, directing them to settle their dispute in the ring.
As Xu Tan fought, Da Zhi guided him, emphasizing the importance of understanding his motivation for fighting rather than just throwing punches, and maintaining a stable rhythm and stance. After some intense fighting, Da Zhi instructed Xu Tan that if anyone threatened him again, he should punch them back as Da Zhi demonstrated.
Da Zhi then congratulated Xu Tan, stating he was now "qualified" and explaining that Mr. Fu had sent him there not to learn boxing but to develop the "bloodthirsty" spirit he lacked despite his ping pong skills. Da Zhi urged Xu Tan to remember this feeling and always rise again, no matter how many times he was knocked down in a game.
Da Zhi then revealed himself as the assistant coach, explaining that he was specifically instructed to "pick on" Xu Tan because as a non-professional boxer, Xu Tan needed an opponent who could control their strength to avoid serious injury, unlike his subordinates. The CD was returned, repaired, and the boxer who had damaged it apologized, even offering to take another beating if it wasn't fixed. Xu Tan, now resolute, had clearly absorbed the lesson.
Yu Kenan's "special training" in the countryside concluded, and Teng Biao arrived to bring him back to the team. Before reaching the house, Teng Biao noticed some village girls playing ping pong and spontaneously joined them. One of the girls, upon learning he was Yu Kenan's coach, playfully called him a "bad guy," claiming Yu Kenan had spoken ill of him. Teng Biao then found Yu Kenan in the pigsty, addressing a pig named "Teng Biao."
Yu Kenan was comically apologizing to the pig for past treatment, encouraging it to learn from other players like Liu Shi, Ma Chuan (referred to as "Xiao Pang"), and Fu Jingchun (referred to as "Ah Chun"), but humorously excluding Xu Tan. He spoke of building a shed for the pig. Teng Biao, amused by the conversation, then formally met the old lady, introducing himself as Yu Kenan's coach from the national team and expressing gratitude for her care, offering gifts.
The little girl once again called Teng Biao a "bad guy." Later, the girl tearfully asked Yu Kenan if he was leaving. Yu Kenan comforted her, asking her to look after her grandmother and the "piglet," to study hard and be good. He sealed their promise with a pinky swear, "Never break a pinky promise. Or else, you'll become a piglet."
On the drive back, Teng Biao teased Yu Kenan, noting how the little girl was "more grateful" than him for picking wild fruits before his departure. Yu Kenan, visibly emotional, declared to Teng Biao that he would take responsibility for the girl's school fees.
Teng Biao questioned his ability to do so given his current situation, to which Yu Kenan tearfully vowed to become "Asian Champion and World Champion" to fulfill his promise, now driven by a sense of responsibility rather than bravado. Back at the Training Bureau of the State Sports General Administration, the coaches, led by Mr. Fu, were searching for a doubles partner for Ye Zhen Xin for the upcoming World Ping-Pong Tournament through sparring sessions.
Players took turns attempting to pair with Ye Zhen Xin. Zheng Hao earnestly hoped Fu Jingchun would seize this opportunity. However, during Fu Jingchun's turn, it was observed that he played too tightly, seemingly nervous, and his performance was deemed unfavorable, with constant mutual interference between him and Ye Zhen Xin due to his singles play habits. When Xia Ke stepped up, his impressive skill immediately stood out.
After deliberations, Mr. Fu asked the coaching team if there were any objections, to which there were none. He then officially announced that Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke would be the chosen men's doubles team for the World Ping-Pong Tournament. Zheng Hao was clearly disappointed with this outcome. Mr. Fu informed them that he and the coaching team would quickly develop a training plan. Afterward, Mr. Fu summoned Xu Tan.
Upon their return to the national team, Yu Kenan observed Xu Tan's facial injuries, jokingly asking if he had been "beaten up" during his punishment. Xu Tan attributed the marks to cupping, and in turn, teased Yu Kenan about his own hair, also claiming it was due to cupping. Mr. Fu addressed both of them, acknowledging their recent punishments as "worthwhile" and a "rare experience" that should serve as a reminder, then declared the past issues resolved.
He then revealed the team's plan to select another doubles pair from the Second team, with Yu Kenan and Xu Tan being the "first choice." Both players immediately rejected the idea, with Yu Kenan bluntly stating he wouldn't want to pair with Xu Tan, and Xu Tan echoing similar sentiments. Others in the room expressed skepticism, recalling their previous conflicts.
However, Mr. Fu clarified that while the team wouldn't force them, joining the doubles program offered "special treatment": the opportunity to directly advance to the First team if they passed the coaching staff's assessment. He stressed that this decision would significantly impact their path to the First team. Reluctantly, they agreed to shake hands, sealing their partnership. To their surprise, Mr. Fu then produced a pair of toy handcuffs and locked their wrists together.
He instructed Teng Biao to uncuff them only for training and to re-cuff them afterward, stating they would remain bound until they developed a true doubles synergy. Yu Kenan protested, but Mr. Fu warned that the "steel handcuffs" couldn't be broken by force, and any attempt to do so would result in an additional ten days of wearing them.
Yu Kenan pleaded with Teng Biao to release them, but Teng Biao simply advised them to "learn how to get along with each other first." Yu Kenan despairingly questioned how they would manage basic necessities like using the toilet. Later, in their room, Yu Kenan, still fuming, attempted to smash the handcuffs with a hammer, declaring he didn't want to spend another second with Xu Tan, but Xu Tan reminded him of the additional punishment.
They later struggled with showering, as they couldn't remove their clothes while cuffed, though Xu Tan eventually figured out a way to maneuver the shirt off, albeit painfully for Yu Kenan. The next morning, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, still cuffed together, struggled to coordinate their movements while waking up, leading to their tardiness for training and a punishment of fifty push-ups each.
During their first doubles drill, their lack of coordination was evident as they constantly interfered with each other, unable to even hit the ball effectively, much to the coach's sarcastic amusement. Meanwhile, Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke were engaged in a different form of training, resembling meditation, which Xia Ke questioned for its lack of apparent technical or physical benefits. Ye Zhen Xin clarified it was meant "to calm you down."
He then pondered with Xia Ke about the true essence of doubles. While acknowledging their almost flawless technical cooperation, Ye Zhen Xin felt "something is missing." He proposed that the "ultimate level" of doubles involved communicating solely through "just a gaze alone, without speaking or making any gestures," instinctively knowing the partner's next move, even if he didn't yet know how to achieve it.
In another session focused on data analysis, Mr. Fu questioned Yu Kenan about specific offensive hit rates from a previous game, which Yu Kenan admitted he couldn't remember. Mr. Fu chastised him, stressing the importance of recording and analyzing data for practical application, warning that neglecting this could lead to future setbacks. Xu Tan, however, accurately provided the requested percentages.
Later, Liu Shi and Ma Chuan, seeing the opportunity, tried to register as a doubles pair to train with Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke. Ma Chuan pointed out his left-handedness as an advantage. However, a coach informed Liu Shi that as a chop player, he was unsuitable for doubles, despite Ma Chuan's left-handedness offering an advantage. This rejection left Liu Shi feeling disheartened, as he had hoped to use doubles to break through his training bottleneck.
Observing this, Qin Zhen approached Leng Yi, inquiring about his rank in the recent Grand Round Robin (ninth place). Qin Zhen pointed out Leng Yi's technical weaknesses, such as his height making him unstable and slow to recover against fast balls. He suggested that rapid improvement and securing international competition spots would be difficult in singles.
Instead, Qin Zhen proposed that Leng Yi form a doubles team with Ma Chuan, leveraging Ma Chuan's left-handedness and Leng Yi's long reach to create an advantageous pairing under the new doubles rules, thereby gaining more competition experience. Leng Yi agreed to the proposal. That night, Qin Zhen, visibly intoxicated after paying his bar tab, stumbled back to the training hall and knocked on Liu Shi's door.
Episode 21 Recap
Heavily inebriated and deeply melancholic, Qin Zhen stumbled back to the training hall in the middle of the night and knocked on Liu Shi's door. He pulled Liu Shi, still in his sleepwear, to the training room, aiming to practice and vent his frustrations. Qin Zhen, once a top chopper, could no longer play due to health reasons, and he resented the decline of the chop shot style.
While drinking earlier, memories of the 1997 Manchester World Table Tennis Championship resurfaced, where the Belarusian player Samsonov had defeated four Chinese players to reach the men's singles final. Qin Zhen, a popular favorite, had been relegated to a supporting role against the more powerful Waldner. During this time, he was haunted by critical voices saying, "Do you think you are still the national team's favorite? Wake up! Chop shot is dead now, and so are you!"
Back in the training hall, despite Liu Shi's attempt to change into sportswear, Qin Zhen insisted he could play without it, urging him to train faster with more spin. Liu Shi, fascinated by Qin Zhen's signature move where he could control the ball's spin with a stomp, expressed a desire to learn it.
Qin Zhen, after questioning Liu Shi's current level, passionately explained the history of chop shots, asserting its enduring vitality for over a century, despite some dismissing it as outdated or judging it by doubles standards. He described the chop shot as "performing magic," allowing players to attack or defend at will, and confidently declared, "When there's a chopper on the court, no one else will matter!" and "Chop shot is the king of singles."
He concluded by stating his strong disagreement with the notion of chop shots being useless, and agreed to teach Liu Shi, seemingly pouring his unfulfilled dream into the young player. The next morning, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, still handcuffed together, were on their way to training. Zhang Caiwei called Yu Kenan, questioning why he hadn't contacted her after returning yesterday and threatening to come to the training center.
Embarrassed by the handcuffs, Yu Kenan lied, claiming he wasn't there and that his father was visiting. To make the lie believable, he even had Xu Tan imitate his father calling him, before quickly hanging up. When Xu Tan asked why he was hiding, Yu Kenan retorted that he wouldn't bring Xu Tan, a "third wheel" or 'gooseberry,' to meet her.
During their doubles training, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan’s lack of coordination led to another heated argument about ball quality and court space. They exchanged insults, with Xu Tan even getting physical after Yu Kenan taunted him about his boxing experience. Their clash was interrupted by an enraged Teng Biao, who exclaimed, "If you want to fight, do it!" He revealed that Lei Cheng had personally commended Xu Tan as a talented player, asking him to guide him well.
He also disclosed that Yu Ge, Yu Kenan's proud father, had swallowed his pride to repeatedly call him secretly, inquiring about Yu Kenan's progress. Teng Biao explained that while other players were punished for mistakes, Fu Chuanzhi saw potential in them and continuously arranged special training.
However, he warned them that if they couldn't overcome their personal friction, they would never make it into the First team, or even remain in the Second team, threatening to send them back to where they came from. He urged them to reflect on the purpose of being handcuffed. Feeling ashamed after Teng Biao’s stern lecture, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan silently re-handcuffed themselves.
Other Second team players, like Xu Nuo and Zhai Jia Chen, grumbled about Yu Kenan and Xu Tan receiving special treatment like boxing, football, and sparring with the women's team, but conceded that the two did play quite well in the match they just had. Xu Nuo boasted about being a champion in Ji'an and Jilin, while Yu Kenan reminded him that many in the team, like himself, were also champions in their hometowns, such as Yichang, Hubei.
At home, Lei Cheng, preparing dinner, was surprised to find his ex-wife at the door, rather than Lei Lei who he thought might have forgotten her keys. He was initially awkward but noted she hadn't aged, even looked younger, a compliment she returned. She offered him liver supplements and samples of her own successful brand. Inquiring about Lei Lei, she learned Lei Lei was out buying noodles.
She then revealed she had visited Lei Lei's school and was informed of problems with Lei Lei's studies and other issues, which Lei Cheng acknowledged and promised to address. Her true intention became clear: she wanted to take Lei Lei abroad, citing her promise to do so when she was capable, believing Lei Lei would have more educational opportunities and a better living environment.
Lei Cheng vehemently refused, asserting that he and Lei Lei were doing fine in China and didn't need foreign care. She accused him of neglecting Lei Lei's studies and well-being, suggesting Lei Lei was more caregiver to him than vice-versa. Lei Cheng countered, calling their unique bond "tacit understanding" or "patriotism," which she wouldn't comprehend. She scoffed at his "20-year-old excuse" and insisted on taking Lei Lei this time. Lei Cheng, angered, threatened to escort her out.
She passionately declared it her responsibility to provide Lei Lei a better life, but Lei Cheng fired back, accusing her of abandoning them to live with another man "on the other side of the world" and only now showing concern because she had made money. Just then, Lei Lei returned, entered, and pointedly greeted only her father, completely ignoring her mother. When her mother tried to speak, Lei Lei curtly dismissed her, "I'm not free!"
Later, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, still troubled by their training issues and Teng Biao's scolding, received a call from Lei Lei. Xu Tan, hesitant, fumbled for words. Yu Kenan, seizing the phone, boldly informed Lei Lei that Xu Tan was free tomorrow at five in the evening, then hung up, stating the need to face problems directly. Prompted by Xu Tan, Yu Kenan then called Zhang Caiwei. She hinted that Teng Biao had already told her about his situation.
Yu Kenan arranged to meet her on the track after training the next afternoon, sternly telling her not to be late. The following afternoon, Zhang Caiwei arrived at the track, finding Yu Kenan and Xu Tan still handcuffed. She immediately chastised Yu Kenan for not contacting her during his punishment. Yu Kenan explained that the village had no signal, and that Teng Biao had sent him to work at a pigsty.
He also explained that Fu Chuanzhi had handcuffed him to Xu Tan, which was why he avoided her—to prevent her from laughing at their predicament. Lei Lei then joined them, giving Xu Tan a USB drive with video materials from Director Lei (her father), which she hoped would be useful. When Xu Tan asked about her recent troubles, Lei Lei vaguely cited school stress and her desire to graduate and live as she pleased, omitting any mention of her mother.
In a moment of mischief, Yu Kenan blurted out that Xu Tan had written a love letter to Lei Lei. A mortified Xu Tan quickly covered Yu Kenan's mouth. Although the plot summary suggests Lei Lei might not have heard the "love letter" part, the overall awkwardness of the situation prompted her to promptly excuse herself, with Zhang Caiwei following.
As they left, Zhang Caiwei lamented that Yu Kenan and Xu Tan would remain handcuffed until they learned to get along, and warned against going against coaches, playfully adding that if it wasn't for Xu Tan, she'd let Yu Kenan suffer longer. As the Kuwait Open approached, the team announced its selections. Leng Yi and Ma Chuan, known for their stable doubles performance, were chosen to represent the national team in the Kuwait Open Tournament.
Qin Zhen urged them to prepare well and uphold the national team's honor. To Liu Shi's surprise, he was selected as the men's singles participant for the tournament. Qin Zhen encouraged him, reminding him to embrace the opportunity and "face the hardship head-on." Meanwhile, Fu Jingchun, a player, approached Zheng Hao, requesting to join the open game to improve his world ranking.
Zheng Hao firmly rejected the idea, stating that Fu Jingchun, aiming for the World Table Tennis Championships, shouldn't waste energy on such "minor competitions," especially with the close timing to the direct qualification match. He emphasized that gaining entry to the World Table Tennis Championships was far more valuable than numerous open games and assigned Fu Jingchun additional training exercises to prepare for his true goal.
Zheng Hao's unwavering stance and disregard for Fu Jingchun's wishes caused resentment in Fu Jingchun's heart, but as a player, he could not openly oppose his coach. At dinner, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan, still handcuffed, endured teasing from teammates, who even sang a song about them having "glue smell" on them. Ma Chuan, now in the First team alongside Liu Shi, shared his observations, remarking on the vast skill gap between the First and Second teams.
He confessed to struggling to comprehend the tactics of top players like Fang Yue and Xia Ke, admitting he couldn't even return Xia Ke’s serves. He proudly shared that he and Liu Shi were going to the Kuwait Open, believing their future was bright under Qin Zhen's guidance. Xu Tan and Yu Kenan expressed their eagerness to improve their doubles play to join the First team.
They mentioned being flummoxed during a recent practice match against Xu Nuo and Zhai Jia Chen, who used a secret hand gesture that disrupted their rhythm. Ma Chuan explained these were "self-created gestures," not for serves but for communicating pre-set strategies based on partners' styles, similar to what he and Leng Yi used. However, he refused to reveal his own "national secrets" as an international player, jokingly citing the possibility of competing against them in the future.
Nevertheless, he advised Xu Tan and Yu Kenan to develop their own unique gestures based on their playing styles, noting that hand signals were a practical way to communicate during a match, as excessive talking could result in fouls.
Episode 22 Recap
Over time, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan developed a stronger tacit understanding, finally overcoming their disagreements in daily life and making significant progress in their table tennis skills. Following a doubles strategy proposed by Ma Chuan, they devised a system of hand signals. Yu Kenan suggested a dynamic where he would primarily attack and Xu Tan would defend.
After some initial humorous attempts at creating complex gestures by Yu Kenan, Xu Tan simplified them, establishing clear signals for topspin, backspin, long, and short balls, which he practiced diligently, even cramping his finger. Seeing their consistent progress, Coach Fu Chuanzhi decided it was time for the next phase, and Coach Teng Biao announced that the handcuffs, which had symbolized their unique training, would finally be honorably retired.
With his hands now free, Yu Kenan immediately went to find Zhang Caiwei for a date. He was eager to spend freely, suggesting an expensive restaurant where a meal for two cost over two thousand yuan. Zhang Caiwei, however, was more mindful of expenses and suggested they find a more affordable place. Yu Kenan then took her to a clothing store.
He picked out a dress and high heels, a style Zhang Caiwei had never worn and was reluctant to try. However, Yu Kenan persisted, telling her that people should always make breakthroughs. She reluctantly tried them on, and when she emerged, Yu Kenan was captivated, telling her she looked beautiful. Later, as they walked, it began to rain, and Zhang Caiwei twisted her ankle. Yu Kenan tried to hail a taxi, but none were available late at night.
Without hesitation, he carried her on his back all the way back to the training center. Upon their return, Coach Teng Biao was waiting for Yu Kenan, having called him earlier, furious that he had taken a leave while Xu Tan was training. Teng Biao sternly warned Yu Kenan that his personal life was affecting his training and that if he failed the upcoming assessment, he would lose his place in the team.
He advised Yu Kenan to calmly reflect on his next steps. Meanwhile, Xu Tan was pondering what gift to get Lei Lei for her upcoming eighteenth birthday. He sought advice from Ma Chuan and another teammate, who teased him about buying a gift for a girl. Ma Chuan suggested he find out what Lei Lei truly needed, dismissing Xu Tan’s current ideas like cake, sneakers, or a scarf as potentially unsuitable.
When Xu Tan met Lei Lei and asked about her wishes for her birthday, she nonchalantly stated she had no specific wishes but really wanted to improve her math grades, leaving Xu Tan at a loss. Coach Fu Chuanzhi suddenly announced a surprise temporary doubles match, pitting Yu Kenan and Xu Tan against members of the First Team in a best-of-three game.
Coach Teng Biao warned them that their opponents had a left-right handed advantage and excelled at forehand short balls, a tactic specifically targeting Xu Tan. During the match, Ma Chuan observed to Liu Shi that Yu Kenan was solely focused on attacking while Xu Tan was purely defensive, and their opponents were exploiting this by using body-hits against Yu Kenan.
The match quickly devolved into an argument between Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, with Yu Kenan criticizing Xu Tan's returns and Xu Tan defending his plays, both blaming each other for not adhering to their agreed-upon roles and hand signals. They ultimately lost decisively, 11-2 and 11-3.
Coach Fu Chuanzhi expressed his deep disappointment, noting that their panic was not the main issue; their inability to adapt to body-hits and their failure to analyze their own strengths and weaknesses were the real problems. He stated that with their current level, they were not ready for the First Team, emphasizing that true improvement comes from self-realization.
Coach Teng Biao then revealed the true significance of the match: it was Coach Fu Chuanzhi’s assessment for their entry into the First Team, and they had squandered the opportunity. He chastised them for their arrogance and lack of preparation, declaring that there would be "no next time" for such a chance. Furthermore, due to their cumulative low scores, the team decided to cancel their qualification for the intragroup round-robin tournament.
Teng Biao, furious, dismissed them, telling them to reflect deeply on their failures. As the Chinese New Year approached, Coach Fu Chuanzhi announced a five-day holiday but reminded the team of the packed schedule ahead, including the Kuwait Open, the Zagreb World Table Tennis Championships direct qualification tournament, two major internal round-robin tournaments, the World Table Tennis Championships selection tournament, and the Beijing Olympics. Yu Kenan's New Year celebration at home was fraught with tension.
His father, Yu Ge, relentlessly criticized him for not making it into the First Team and for "playing" in Beijing, despite his mother's attempts to defend him. Feeling suffocated by the constant negativity, Yu Kenan abruptly left the New Year's Eve dinner and returned to the training center early, where he found Xu Tan already practicing. The two of them shared a meal in their dorm, watching a TV report about the Kuwait Open.
The broadcast announced that the Chinese ping-pong team had performed excellently, with Ma Chuan and Leng Yi winning the men's doubles gold medal and Liu Shi securing a silver medal in men's singles. During a post-match interview, a nervous Leng Yi gave a brief response, while Ma Chuan delivered a comprehensive thank you speech, acknowledging the national team leaders, coaches, and teammates, and highlighting their thorough analysis of the German team’s tactics.
Despite his silver medal, Liu Shi was not satisfied and immediately sought out Coach Qin Zhen, eager to learn "ultimate moves" to improve his first three strokes, which he felt were too monotonous and passive against strong attacks. Qin Zhen, however, insisted he first master his forehand. Xu Tan then approached Liu Shi, clearly seeking help. Meanwhile, Yu Kenan cornered Ma Chuan in the hallway, requesting his help in training.
Ma Chuan initially feigned busyness with his own packed schedule, but Yu Kenan cleverly blackmailed him with knowledge of his past misdeeds, such as causing a dormitory power outage by cooking hotpot and sneaking out at night. Ma Chuan tried to deflect blame to Liu Shi, but Yu Kenan threatened to involve the security guard. After some haggling, Ma Chuan agreed to help for three boxes of chocolates a week.
With Liu Shi and Ma Chuan now involved, the four began training together. Liu Shi, despite being a chopper by specialty, adapted to play against them. Yu Kenan emphasized that they needed Liu Shi and Ma Chuan’s expertise with First Team playing styles. During practice, Liu Shi and Ma Chuan quickly identified Xu Tan and Yu Kenan's persistent problem, with Liu Shi articulating it as Xu Tan's reluctance to attack and Yu Kenan's impatience in defense.
Liu Shi noted that their predictable strategy made them easy targets for body-hits. Yu Kenan admitted he understood the theory but couldn't help but attack whenever a ball came his way. Ma Chuan then offered the crucial solution: they needed to develop offensive-defensive transition. When Yu Kenan was targeted, Xu Tan should actively attack, and conversely, when Xu Tan was targeted, Yu Kenan should provide defense. By switching their roles, they could break the deadlock and unpredictability that currently plagued their game.
Episode 23 Recap
It was Lei Lei's birthday, and she tried calling someone, but they were unreachable, leaving her feeling disheartened. Just as she was about to head home from school, she was met by her mother, who wished her a happy birthday. Her mother spoke with deep regret, recalling Lei Lei's first birthday after she left years ago. Lei Lei had cried on the phone, saying she wanted nothing but her mother to return, not even a cake or her father.
Since that day, her mother confessed, she hadn't dared to call Lei Lei on her birthday. She asked if she was still a part of Lei Lei's birthday wishes and if she could spend one more birthday with her. Lei Lei, touched by her mother's heartfelt plea, agreed to dinner. Meanwhile, at home, Lei Cheng had prepared a birthday dinner and cake for Lei Lei. He was surprised when Xu Tan arrived, having expected Lei Lei at the door.
Lei Cheng had even informed Lei Lei that Xu Tan would be coming. Shortly after, Xu Tan received a message from Lei Lei, who explained that her mother had insisted on taking her to dinner. Realizing their surprise plan had been "intercepted," Lei Cheng and Xu Tan prepared to eat alone.
During dinner, Lei Lei's mother, whose overseas business was thriving—as evidenced by a phone call she took during the meal where she discussed her "Guo Ben Products," her rosehip farm in Chile, and hiring locals to extract natural ingredients—proposed that Lei Lei study abroad. She assured her daughter that she could fully support her and had already looked into suitable universities. Lei Lei, however, was reluctant.
She stated that she had only agreed to dinner and preferred to stay in Beijing with her friends and, importantly, with her father, who would otherwise be left to eat Fried Sauce Noodles every meal. Lei Lei also brought up her mother's earlier comment about "someone no longer existing." Her mother explained that she had indeed loved someone after moving overseas but had hesitated to commit, primarily out of fear that he wouldn't treat Lei Lei well.
Lei Lei then questioned why her mother had chosen her stubborn father, Lei Cheng, in the first place. Lei Lei's mother admitted she once blamed Lei Cheng for their separation, but after facing hardships abroad, she realized that their choices were their own—Lei Cheng's unwavering dedication to table tennis and her own commitment to her career. She reiterated her wish for Lei Lei to live a happy and free life, suggesting that going overseas would simply give her more options.
Lei Lei's mother then said that this was the only time she envied Lei Cheng. Back at Lei Cheng's home, he and Xu Tan began their meal. Lei Cheng, after a few drinks, confided in Xu Tan, stating that it was impossible for an athlete at their peak to achieve a win-win situation in both life and career.
He spoke of his own regrets, lamenting that despite the Longtan Lake park being so close to the Administration of Sports, he had never been able to take Lei Lei's mother there, always prioritizing his training. He recalled missing Lei Lei's birth due to a match, arriving hours after his wife had delivered. " How could her mother be happy?"
he questioned, concluding by advising Xu Tan not to consider personal relationships before the age of 30, warning that it would only lead to unhappiness. Meanwhile, at a coaching team meeting, Fu Chuanzhi announced the women's team roster for the Olympics, which was approved without objection. Afterward, Wang Jun tried to convince Fu Chuanzhi to reconsider Zhang Caiwei, citing her personal skills and extensive experience in major tournaments.
However, Fu Chuanzhi was resolute, explaining that Zhang Caiwei's loss at a critical game point in the World Table Tennis Championships indicated a restrictive playstyle that was difficult to adapt to new opponents like Team Japan. He emphasized the team's need for the "best and most stable combination" for the Beijing Olympics, where a silver medal in ping-pong was akin to a loss.
Zhang Caiwei, deeply upset, confronted Wang Jun, demanding to know why she was excluded when historically, strong performances at the World Table Tennis Championships secured an Olympic spot. Wang Jun urged her to consider the national interest, reminding her how she herself had once benefited from the sacrifices of older players. He offered her two invitational tournaments in August as an alternative.
Later, Yu Kenan tried to comfort Zhang Caiwei, but she dismissed his words, stating that athletes always face such choices. She revealed she was now seriously considering joining the Singapore team, feeling she had "no value" in the national team unless she could stand on the champion's podium.
Yu Kenan implored her to stay in China, offering to support her, but when Zhang Caiwei asked if he would make the same choice if he were in her shoes, Yu Kenan was left speechless. Elsewhere, Fu Jingchun was enduring a grueling training session with Zheng Hao. Zheng Hao chastised him for his 70% hit rate and slow recovery from a minor injury, forcing him to do additional sets.
Fu Jingchun requested an adjustment to his training plan to participate in open and tour tournaments, noting that he had not been selected for the World Table Tennis Championships and felt his coach hadn't supported his spot despite his scores barely meeting the qualification standard for the national team trials. However, Zheng Hao harshly rejected him, questioning his need for points and his goals, emphasizing that he lacked the experience, qualifications, and ranking to compete. " You are nothing!"
Zheng Hao exclaimed. Back with Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, whose doubles team had achieved a 100% win rate in the Second team, after a period of observation and persistent lobbying from Teng Biao, Fu Chuanzhi announced a final assessment for their doubles team. Scheduled for June 8th, the match would determine their future: a win would send them to the First team, while a loss would mean returning to their respective provincial teams.
Their initial confidence was shattered when they learned their opponents would be First team world champions Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke. Liu Shi, who was present with Ma Chuan, candidly warned them about the formidable opponents, highlighting their telepathic communication on the court. He admitted he couldn't win a single point against them even as a training partner, and if playing seriously, he couldn't beat Ye Zhen Xin.
Xu Tan, growing anxious, urged Liu Shi to offer pointers instead of discouraging them. Yu Kenan, though, defiantly told Liu Shi to stop being a coward. That night, Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke discussed their upcoming match. Xia Ke initially dismissed Yu Kenan and Xu Tan as "inexperienced youngsters," viewing it as a mere warm-up.
But Ye Zhen Xin warned her not to underestimate them, mentioning that Fu Chuanzhi had subjected them to "special methods" like handcuffs, which Xia Ke recognized as part of "Fu's three punishments," noting that only this generation’s Xu Tan and Yu Kenan had endured them. This implied Fu Chuanzhi saw great potential in them. Ye Zhen Xin concluded that they should "teach both of them a good lesson" to see what Fu Chuanzhi valued in them.
Meanwhile, Lei Lei called Xu Tan, sleepless due to anxiety about her upcoming college entrance exam. She asked if a single exam could truly decide a person's fate and if it was fair. Xu Tan, comparing exams to matches, comforted her, saying that while preparation was important, the outcome depended on the day's performance. He reassured her that winning or losing wasn't the most important thing, just doing her best, and that her fate wouldn't be decided by one exam.
After wishing each other goodnight, Xu Tan, still unable to sleep, discussed tactics for the match with Yu Kenan. He suggested they shouldn't immediately use their offense-defense switch tactic to avoid being exposed. Yu Kenan, sensing Xu Tan's nervousness, advised him to stop overthinking and get some rest, emphasizing that a lack of sleep would render any tactic useless.
The next morning, June 8th, Lei Cheng saw Lei Lei off at her college entrance exam, encouraging her to remain calm and approach the exam like a match. He told her that a steady mind and strong psychological resilience were half the battle, and expressed his belief that she would perform well. At the table tennis venue, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan arrived for their assessment.
Fu Chuanzhi addressed them first, acknowledging their difficult journey and urging them to play freely without mental burden. Then, turning to Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke, he instructed them to play with the intensity of an international competition, without holding back, to force Xu Tan and Yu Kenan to reveal their full potential.
Liu Shi and Ma Chuan, observing from the side, revealed to Xu Tan and Yu Kenan that it was "Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke" who had the dominant nine-win and one-draw record against Liu Shi and Leng Yi, not the other way around. Despite this daunting information, all of them expressed their determination to "do their best" and "fight them."
Episode 24 Recap
The pivotal match for Yu Kenan and Xu Tan against Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke was underway, a decisive moment for their careers. In the first game, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan displayed an unconventional tactic. Xu Tan would adopt an attacking posture, but Yu Kenan would be the true attacker, swinging the ball over Xu Tan's head. They communicated tactics with exaggerated, confusing gestures, then seemingly reversed roles, with Xu Tan becoming the actual attacker.
They then brazenly announced their strategy, using a "feint east, hit east" twice, before employing a "feint east, hit west" for their final successful shot, securing their first victory. Coach Fu, observing their resourcefulness, remarked that ping-pong isn't just about technical skill; it's also a psychological battle, finding their tactical progression "interesting."
During a short break, Xu Tan voiced his concern that their trick would likely be ineffective in the next game as their opponents would have already figured it out. Yu Kenan, however, encouraged him not to overthink and simply to do their best. As Xu Tan predicted, the second game resulted in a devastating loss for them. Ye Zhen Xin and Xia Ke had identified their weakness and relentlessly targeted Xu Tan with body-hits.
This strategy confined Xu Tan to defense, leaving Yu Kenan unable to mount an offense. Coach Fu watched with growing worry, noting that their long-standing offensive-defensive weakness remained unresolved, and the match was quickly drawing to a close. Before the final game, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan exchanged a determined glance, silently steeling themselves. The tension in the match escalated, with the score fiercely contested.
A significant change became apparent: Yu Kenan and Xu Tan had successfully implemented a fluid offensive-defensive transition, seamlessly switching roles. Suddenly, Xu Tan let out a triumphant shout after winning a point, startling everyone present. The scores continued to be neck and neck, but at match point, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan found themselves trailing by a single point. In a desperate attempt, both players dove to save the ball, falling to the ground.
As the ball returned, Yu Kenan grabbed Xu Tan’s hand, helping him to his feet for a counter-spin. Despite their valiant effort, the ball landed just off the table. They lost the match by two points, leaving them profoundly disappointed. Coach Fu, who had closely watched the entire match, confessed that the outcome and score were within his expectations. However, he emphasized that all the coaches and players present recognized Yu Kenan and Xu Tan’s spirit and talent.
Acknowledging their technical deficiencies, he instructed the National First team members, as their seniors, to guide them in their development. Teng Biao, noticing Yu Kenan and Xu Tan were still dazed, clarified Coach Fu’s message: they had been selected for the National First team. The realization sparked an excited embrace between the two. Elsewhere, Mr Zheng confronted Coach Fu Chuanzhi, expressing his deep frustration.
Fu Jingchun had been excluded from the World Ping-pong Tournament, and now again from the World Cup pre-selection list. Coach Fu admitted that Fu Jingchun’s capabilities were on par with other players on the list but explained that, having only recently joined the First team, he lacked the necessary age, experience, and exposure to major tournaments. The team had decided it was best for him to participate in more smaller competitions to gain experience.
Coach Fu also candidly stated that even if Fu Jingchun were selected, there was no guarantee of him winning a medal. Mr Zheng passionately countered, asserting that Fu Jingchun was qualified in every respect. He recounted how, since coaching Fu Jingchun in the Second team, he had recognized his champion’s demeanor, comparable to other top players, and had consistently designed plans to cultivate him into a world champion.
Mr Zheng urged for Fu Jingchun to get an early start, to compete more, and to achieve more while still young, believing these accomplishments were central to an athlete’s honor, especially given his concern that Fu Jingchun's potential injuries might prematurely end his career, preventing him from ever standing on the world stage again.
Coach Fu acknowledged Mr Zheng’s eagerness for Fu Jingchun to gain experience in major tournaments but insisted on a comprehensive evaluation, reiterating that Fu Jingchun's current achievements couldn't guarantee a medal even if he were selected. Mr Zheng, however, remained steadfast, highlighting Fu Jingchun’s intense training and consistent performance, convinced that with additional support, he would triumph. Coach Fu, having listened intently, eventually asked Mr Zheng to cease worrying and promised to reconsider.
Fu Jingchun, having overheard Mr Zheng's impassioned plea on his behalf, was profoundly moved. Mr Zheng, still visibly emotional, challenged Fu Jingchun, demanding to know his ambition. Fu Jingchun declared his desire to become a champion. Mr Zheng then set a more ambitious goal: to become an Olympics champion, asserting that only an Olympics champion would earn him global recognition and lasting memory. Fu Jingchun, now filled with renewed resolve, vowed to redouble his efforts to achieve this.
After the match, an elated Yu Kenan, now a member of the National First team, joyfully lifted and spun Zhang Caiwei around before they headed to a restaurant to celebrate. He presented her with a bouquet of eight roses, explaining that he had learned it symbolized an apology, and sincerely apologized for his harsh words from before. Zhang Caiwei, however, seemed preoccupied. She then revealed her decision to move abroad.
She explained that she could no longer return to her peak form of two or three years ago, and that the cycling out of older players for new ones was inevitable. Staying, she reasoned, would only lead to fewer opportunities in major tournaments, forcing her to passively watch others, including Yu Kenan, surpass her—a prospect she found unbearable. Yu Kenan, though initially distressed, ultimately understood her choice, recognizing that an athlete’s inherent drive is to always move forward.
They reaffirmed their commitment to each other, agreeing that when she achieved recognition abroad and he won a championship, she would retire, and he would marry her. Meanwhile, Lei Lei had not returned home since her college entrance exam, causing great concern for Lei Cheng and Xu Tan. Lei Cheng even went to the deserted exam hall in search of her, while Xu Tan called him to offer help.
When Lei Lei finally arrived home, she immediately secluded herself in her room, with Xu Tan waiting anxiously outside her door. Later, Lei Cheng spoke with her, deducing her intention to go abroad. The next day, Lei Lei met Xu Tan and, with some hesitation, informed him that she would be leaving abroad the day after tomorrow. She articulated her desire to explore the many opportunities the world offered, refusing to let her life be defined by a single exam.
She confessed that the period leading up to the exam had been excruciatingly difficult, and she envied Xu Tan's clear, self-determined path, inspiring her to find her own. On her departure day, Lei Lei provided Lei Cheng with detailed instructions regarding household matters, including utility cards and cooking rice, and gently reminded him not to consume excessive amounts of salty soybean paste noodles due to his high blood pressure.
To spare him an emotional farewell, she insisted Lei Cheng not accompany her to the airport. Before she left, he kissed her forehead, telling her to depart without any worries. Xu Tan, however, arrived at the airport to see Lei Lei off. He handed her a recorded cassette tape, explaining that he found it difficult to express his feelings face-to-face.
He apologized for his previous reaction a couple of days prior, clarifying that his response stemmed from his reluctance to see her leave. He acknowledged her lifelong role in motivating his progress and expressed his earnest hope that she would pursue all her aspirations. He concluded by promising to wait for her return before giving Lei Lei a heartfelt hug.
With only 371 days remaining until the Beijing Olympics, all coaches and team members stood solemnly before the rising national flag, knowing they faced even more rigorous training. Each individual harbored a dream of becoming an Olympics champion, ready to dedicate their youth and passion to achieving that ultimate goal.
It was explained that athletes typically gain entry into the National First team by placing among the top eight in major national tournaments or by performing well in promotion and relegation matches against lower-ranked First team members. Xu Tan and Yu Kenan, however, had secured their spots through direct selection by the coaches.
The National First team represents China in major international competitions, featuring a smaller roster and more frequent personnel changes compared to the Second team, which serves as a reserve. Entry into the First team was their crucial opportunity to compete on the world stage and embark on the path to championship glory.
Episode 25 Recap
Mr. Wei and Mr. Fu discussed the return of Fang Yue and other players from a recent tournament, who would be back that night for the elimination game the following day. Mr. Fu then inquired about Kang Ning's health. The team doctor had reported that it would be difficult for Kang Ning to continue playing, and he had already applied for retirement.
Mr. Fu lamented the immense sacrifices athletes make over decades, training their mental strength, skills, and physical abilities, only to face injuries that force them to give up, even when on the cusp of becoming world champions. He reflected on how injuries are common among national team athletes, and that the cruelty of competitive sports means the body's irreversible toll will eventually lead to replacement by younger players, leaving the question of who the next Kang Ning would be.
Xu Tan arrived at the First team dorm, where Liu Shi enthusiastically helped him with his luggage. Yu Kenan, meanwhile, was on the phone with Mr. Teng, questioning why he hadn't made it into the First team with them. During a team meeting, Mr. Fu announced the arrival of new players in the First team and the upcoming November elimination game, leading to a redistribution of coaches and players.
Mr. Zheng was assigned to coach Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, along with Dong Yu, Wang Ping, and Wang Kai. He stressed the importance of coaches focusing on the new players and getting to know them quickly. After training, Xu Tan tried calling Lei Lei but couldn't get through. Meanwhile, Liu Shi overheard Yu Kenan affectionately talking to Zhang Caiwei on the balcony, calling her his "little kitty" and expressing how much he missed her.
Xu Tan later realized he kept running out of phone credit due to international calls, a problem Yu Kenan fixed for him, joking that he's "so foolish." The next day, Mr. Zheng announced that Yu Kenan and Xu Tan were in the elimination group, which also meant they would serve as sparring partners. Yu Kenan protested, citing his past achievements in the Second team.
Mr. Zheng sternly clarified that in the First team, all past Second team achievements were reset to zero. He asserted that he only cared about winners and that players could only prove themselves by earning medals at international tournaments. He declared his sole goal was to produce champions and expected unquestioning obedience to his commands.
He then announced that any player ranking below tenth in the upcoming elimination game would be required to run thirty laps on the track downstairs daily until their ranking improved. When the first elimination game results were posted, Yu Kenan was seventh and Xu Tan was eighth, which surprised Mr. Zheng. He dismissed those ranked tenth and below, sending Wang Kai to the Second team, and warned the others that their safety was not guaranteed for the next round.
Yu Kenan and Xu Tan endured intense training daily, often sustaining minor injuries. During one training session, Mr. Zheng instructed them to switch sides after only thirty minutes of practice, despite them having already spent the entire morning as sparring partners. When Yu Kenan questioned the order, Mr. Zheng ignored his protests and replaced him with Wang Ping, making Yu Kenan stand outside the court to observe.
Later, Mr. Zheng challenged Xu Tan, whose ranking had dropped from eighth to tenth in the latest elimination game, asking him why he deserved to stay. Xu Tan claimed to be an all-rounder with a good forehand and decent backhand. Mr. Zheng scoffed, remarking that Xu Tan's forehand only seemed good because his backhand was "useless." He then had Fu Jingchun test Xu Tan's forehand and backhand, proving Xu Tan's backhand was indeed very weak.
In a meeting, Mr. Fu made two important announcements: The Olympic qualification event was canceled, and participants would now be selected directly based on ITTF rankings. Fang Yue, Nie Ruifeng, and Chao Yang were the chosen players. The second announcement was a change in the Olympic team event rules, introducing an "Olympic P-Card" for one substitute player.
This P-Card offered a First team member a chance to go to Beijing for the Olympics as a reserve, although the probability of actually playing was estimated at only one percent. Despite the low odds, Mr. Fu emphasized that the P-Card holder must put in 100% effort, even more than the main players, as they wouldn't know when they might be called upon. He urged coaches to convey the importance of this to their players.
Yu Kenan, upon learning about the P-Card, scoffed at the idea, calling it merely a "substitute" and questioning its value if no replacement was needed, stating it was "worse than an entry ticket." He noted that the only scenario for the P-Card holder to play was if one of the three main players got injured, which was unprecedented in their team's history. Mr. Fu explained that the P-Card selection would not only consider rankings but also players' training performance.
From that day on, First team members would rotate as sparring partners for the three main players in the "glass room," while those not selected would continue regular training. An informational segment explained that the Olympic P-Card, as per IOC and ITTF regulations, allows a player to replace an injured athlete in the team event. It offers an additional opportunity to represent the country, making the competition for it intense.
P-Card holders can access special training facilities and the Olympic Village, but official participation requires a replacement application, after which the injured athlete's credentials are revoked, and the substitute's new credentials become effective. Liu Shi, feeling disheartened during training, confessed to Qin Zhen that he believed he wouldn't get the P-Card. He worried about the decreasing opportunities for choppers in major tournaments.
Qin Zhen acknowledged Liu Shi's deeper thinking but emphasized that the P-Card was more than just a stable substitute; it was the national team's "secret weapon," a hidden ace. He expressed his personal dream of seeing a chopper stand on the victory rostrum again and entrusted that hope to Liu Shi. When it was Xu Tan's turn to spar with Fang Yue in the glass room, he apologized for playing too much of "his own game."
Fang Yue, however, found Xu Tan to be the most "honest" sparring partner that day, appreciating his focus solely on playing. Yet, Fang Yue also noticed Xu Tan's hesitation after his good shots, a decisiveness he lacked perhaps due to Mr. Zheng's earlier criticisms. Fang Yue advised him not to overthink during play, as "even a moment of hesitation can cost everything." Xu Tan recalled Yu Kenan telling him the same thing.
A new technical team had conducted physical assessments on all players, with the results to be used as a reference for new Olympic training plans. The data could reveal a player's current physical condition, potential, and maximum load capacity. It was noted that Fu Jingchun's data was particularly unique. During a discussion about strategy against Park Ji-min, the previous Olympic men's singles champion, Mr. Zheng found most players' suggestions off-point.
Xu Tan, however, accurately identified Park Ji-min's strong work rate and aggressive, full-court forehand attack, stressing the need to constantly disrupt his rhythm to win. Impressed, Mr. Zheng acknowledged Xu Tan's insight. While still focusing on Ye Zhen Xin and Fu Jingchun, he finally agreed to give Yu Kenan and Xu Tan a "chance."
The next day, excited by this opportunity, Yu Kenan and Xu Tan arrived two hours early at the training hall, only to find Fu Jingchun already there. Their smiles faded as they realized Mr. Zheng's "chance" was for them to serve as sparring partners for Fu Jingchun, with Xu Tan starting on defense. Although visibly reluctant, they accepted Mr. Zheng's directive.
Episode 26 Recap
Feeling like a professional training partner, Yu Kenan spent his days channeling his frustration through intense play, leaving him constantly sore. During a sparring session, he managed to defeat Nie Ruifeng, which led some to believe he was deliberately showing off. Talking with Xu Tan, Yu Kenan expressed his annoyance at playing with low intensity, fearing he would become a perpetual training partner.
Xu Tan encouraged Yu Kenan not to take things too seriously, but Yu Kenan asserted that training partners should still play with their own style, confidently stating that he would eventually become a top player and "they can just wait." Xu Tan, for his part, also admitted to performing a loop against Fang Yue once, and Yu Kenan urged him to develop his forehand, suggesting a backhand loop could become his signature move.
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) announced a new regulation, completely banning volatile organic compound (VOC) glues and mandating the use of water-based glues instead. This change caused significant issues for the team, requiring all athletes' physical data to be re-collected. More critically, every player's strength decreased, with Fang Yue's offensive capability plummeting by nearly fifty percent, from 77 PM to 42 PM. During a technical discussion, a team member suggested focusing on defensive training in response to the changes.
However, Qin Zhen offered a different perspective, emphasizing that after years of playing, he understood table tennis to be a "game of wits." He explained that victory isn't solely determined by metrics like speed and power, but rather by analyzing the opponent, adapting quickly to different situations, and controlling the rhythm of the match. As he left the meeting, Qin Zhen discreetly took two bottles of the new glue.
Xu Tan, seeing the announcement, attempted to get some of the new glue to try, but was refused because it was still undergoing testing. Later, Qin Zhen secretly gave Xu Tan the two bottles he had taken. Xu Tan and Yu Kenan tried the new glue and quickly discovered that it made the ball slower and significantly weakened its spin. Xu Tan commented that this change was beneficial for offensive players like Yu Kenan, but posed a challenge for others.
Yu Kenan, however, encouraged Xu Tan, reminding him that the quality of his loops was good, his power had increased from boxing training, and he just needed to "use his brain." Meanwhile, the selection for the P-card reserve spot was nearing. The opinions of the three main players carried more weight than even the coaches.
Mr. Zheng, keen to secure the spot for Fu Jingchun, arranged a dinner with Nie Ruifeng and Coach Wei at the Garden Restaurant, ensuring Fu Jingchun would be present. Fu Jingchun initially resisted the arrangement, citing other commitments, but Mr. Zheng insisted, telling him that "acting like you are morally better than others will not help your career as an athlete."
He stressed the importance of seizing this Olympic opportunity, as "you won't know what is going to happen in the next four years," and that a top player's opinion to Mr. Fu could sometimes be "more useful than my opinion as a personal coach." Xu Tan overheard this entire conversation. Realizing that pride alone wouldn't advance his future, Xu Tan decided to act.
He approached Fang Yue to recommend Yu Kenan for the P-card, asking Fang Yue to mention Yu Kenan to Mr. Fu if he believed in Yu Kenan's capabilities. Xu Tan explained that Mr. Zheng did not intend to give him or Yu Kenan a chance to compete for the P-card, but Yu Kenan's excellent recent form made it a shame to miss such an opportunity.
Fang Yue confirmed he already had a good impression of Yu Kenan, noting that "he plays well." He then revealed that he would have mentioned Yu Kenan anyway, as Mr. Fu encouraged the main players to help select candidates. Fang Yue then asked Xu Tan why he wasn't fighting for his own spot. Xu Tan, lacking confidence, simply replied, "I don't think I can make it," revealing his biggest hurdle on the path to becoming a champion.
During a routine training session, the ground suddenly trembled, causing water on the tables to shake. Everyone was perplexed until news channels reported a magnitude 7. 8 earthquake in Wenchuan, Sichuan. The severity of the disaster was such that even aftershocks were felt in other provinces. Liu Shi, whose hometown was Wenchuan, immediately packed his bags to return and search for his grandmother.
Xu Tan offered to accompany him, but Liu Shi declined, stating that finding his "Granny" was something he "must do even if it takes my life." He urged Xu Tan to focus on the Olympic direct tournament instead, as that was what Xu Tan "must do even if it takes your life." Despite Xu Tan's later attempts to travel to Sichuan, he faced travel restrictions due to massive military and rescue efforts.
Ultimately, Liu Shi arrived too late; his grandmother had already passed away, leaving him heartbroken. The Wenchuan earthquake plunged the entire nation into profound grief. The country mobilized all its resources for rescue and aid. With only three months remaining until the Olympics, Mr. Fu addressed the team during a minute of silence for the earthquake victims.
He acknowledged the difficult time for everyone in China but rallied them, urging them to "persevere, to fight and do our best in the competition." He declared that their greatest contribution as national ping-pong players was to secure victory at the Olympics, proclaiming to the world, "Sichuan will not fall! China will not fall!" The team, with renewed determination, chanted, "Train hard! Fight for the country!"
Amidst the national tragedy and intense training, Yu Kenan's relationship with Zhang Caiwei began to fray. During a phone call, she expressed her frustration over a recent loss and felt that he only had training on his mind, accusing him of merely calling to "complete a mission" without truly listening. She warned him that if she reached a point where she no longer wanted to share these things, "we will really have to break up."
Meanwhile, Xu Tan was gravely worried about being unable to contact Liu Shi and lashed out at Yu Kenan for not showing concern. Still reeling from his own argument with Zhang Caiwei, Yu Kenan initially snapped back at Xu Tan but later apologized, admitting that Liu Shi was his "brother as well" and he understood Xu Tan's concern. In a P-card selection meeting, Mr. Fu asked for opinions on the reserve spot.
Mr. Zheng immediately nominated Fu Jingchun, citing his fourth-place ranking behind the main players in the recent elimination rounds, making him the clear "first choice." Coach Wei, while acknowledging Fu Jingchun's merits, also spoke highly of Yu Kenan, noting his improved form and suggesting he would surpass Fu Jingchun with more match experience. Fang Yue also endorsed Yu Kenan, highlighting his "very strong" "urge to win" and his all-out effort during training, making him "something to look forward to."
Mr. Zheng countered, arguing that Yu Kenan was "too young" and lacked the mental resilience required for a reserve in such an important event. He insisted that Fu Jingchun was "more steady" and capable of "withstanding the pressure," and that the Beijing Olympics represented Fu Jingchun's "best and might also be his last chance" due to his age, while Yu Kenan had "many chances. . . in the future."
After hearing opinions from various coaches and main players, Mr. Fu initiated an anonymous vote for the P-card spot, following a suggestion from Fang Yue. With Mr. Zheng and Mr. Fu abstaining to ensure fairness, the vote resulted in a 4-4 split. Due to this tie, Mr. Fu ultimately decided that the P-card spot would be determined by a direct match between Yu Kenan and Fu Jingchun.
Excited by the opportunity, Yu Kenan told Xu Tan that he would "play a serious match" against Fu Jingchun and thanked Xu Tan for helping him secure the chance. Before the match, Yu Kenan's coach, Teng Biao, advised him to "slow down" and "learn how to use your brain." Fu Jingchun's coach encouraged him to relax and play as he normally would in training.
During the intense match, Fu Jingchun's old foot injury flared up, but he "endured" the pain and "narrowly won." After the victory, Fu Jingchun, recognizing that this Beijing Olympics might be his best and last chance, even if only as a substitute, broke down in front of Mr. Zheng, his "Master." He confessed, "I'm very pressured. I'm exhausted."
He imagined the devastating consequences if he had lost or missed the crucial final backhand, believing all their years of hard work "would've been in vain." He reaffirmed his promise to Mr. Zheng to become an Olympic champion, asking him to "wait for me for another four years" and vowing to become a top player in the next Olympics, win the "Single's gold medal and hang it on your neck."
He ended by asking, "Master, why is it so difficult to play Ping Pong?" A concluding message appeared, stating that the ITTF officially implemented the "Glue Ban" on September 1, 2008, replacing toxic, volatile organic compound glues with VOC-free, water-soluble alternatives. This change affected the paddle's elasticity and ball speed, with less impact on players who relied on power and speed, but a greater impact on those who favored spin and pips.
Episode 27 Recap
Fu Jingchun, a left-handed pen-hold grip fast attack player with short pimples rubber from Wuhan, Hubei, entered the national team at sixteen. He was the champion of the Hubei Men's Singles for five consecutive years and the National Junior Championship for three consecutive years. His only wish was to win a championship under Mr. Zheng. Early in his career, he had expressed his ambition to Mr. Zheng, stating that he was willing to endure any hardship to become a champion.
Mr. Zheng had challenged him to understand "why" he wanted to win, telling him to think about it. Now, having entered the Olympic Village for the Beijing 2008 Olympics, Fu Jingchun participated in filming a promotional video with Fang Yue. Mr. Zheng advised him to view it as an opportunity to experience the atmosphere, reminding him that even with a mere 1% chance, he must be 100% prepared.
Meanwhile, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan were in their dorm, watching the Olympic countdown on TV and preparing hotpot. As the countdown began, Liu Shi, covered in dust, suddenly returned, clutching a handkerchief—a keepsake from his granny—and tearfully embraced Xu Tan. The handkerchief held special meaning, as his granny had once wrapped money in it for him when he was a child trying to find his mother, and now it was all he had left of her.
The Beijing 2008 Men's Table Tennis Team competition was underway. The fifth match between China and Korea was tied at two games all, making it the deciding round. Fang Yue was facing Park Ji-min, a rematch from the Athens 2004 Olympics where Park Ji-min had snatched the men's singles gold medal from him. The commentators noted the immense pressure on Fang Yue, framing it as a battle of revenge.
Despite leading ten to six in the crucial third game, Fang Yue dared not relax, as Park Ji-min slowly closed the gap. After a tense rally following Fang Yue's serve, Park Ji-min made a critical error, securing Fang Yue's victory. The crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating China's triumph. During the medal ceremony for Men's Singles, Fang Yue received a silver medal, and the sight of the national flag rising during the ceremony inspired awe and aspiration in everyone present.
An hour before the match, Xu Tan had quietly approached Fang Yue, witnessing firsthand the heavy burden of pressure his senior carried. This moment intensified Xu Tan's own longing to one day enter the arena through the player's tunnel, surrounded by leading officials and reporters. After his victory, Fang Yue confessed to Xu Tan that he intended to retire.
Xu Tan was shocked, pointing out that Fang Yue was only one Olympic men's singles title away from a Grand Slam and urging him to compete for another four years. Fang Yue revealed that he had never truly recovered from his Athens 2004 defeat; every time he stood at the table, he was haunted by the memory of losing that gold medal.
He expressed envy for Xu Tan, who still had ample time and opportunities ahead to compete in world-class events and face formidable opponents like Park Ji-min. Fang Yue then encouraged Xu Tan, asking if he wanted to be a champion and achieve a Grand Slam. When Xu Tan affirmed, Fang Yue advised him to always remember that yearning for victory, as it is an athlete's most precious motivation.
Later, Liu Shi, Xu Tan, and Yu Kenan discussed their motivations for playing ping pong. Liu Shi revealed that he started playing because of Yu Kenan. When he was two, his mother left, and at seven or eight, he went to Chengdu alone to find her. On TV, he saw Yu Kenan win the Eight Cup, and the thought that winning a championship meant being on TV, visible to many people, sparked his journey into ping pong.
He simply believed that by standing in a place where everyone could see him, his mother would find him. Now, he plays to earn money and support his granny. However, after the recent Sichuan earthquake, Xu Tan found his perspective shifting. He questioned whether living was solely for playing ping pong, pondering if there was more to life than his sport. That night, Yu Kenan, deeply moved by witnessing China's victory in the competition, called Zhang Caiwei.
They expressed how much they missed each other. Yu Kenan then expressed his overwhelming desire to become a champion himself, describing a fire ignited within him as he watched the national flag rise. He realized he had previously spoken of winning without fully grasping the meaning of "World Champion," but now he understood. Zhang Caiwei reassured him that he would certainly achieve his goal.
The team welcomed a new player, Su Shun, who was among the top eight at last year's National Games and was a former teammate and long-time rival of Xu Tan from the Beijing team. Su Shun immediately challenged Xu Tan, questioning his presence in the national team for five years without appearing in major tournaments and vowing to show Xu Tan how he had trained over those five years.
Soon after, the roster for the Moscow World Table Tennis Championships was announced, and to Yu Kenan's dismay, neither his nor Xu Tan's name was on the list. Yu Kenan confronted Mr. Zheng, arguing that his ranking was higher than Fu Jingchun's. Mr. Zheng countered by asking if Yu Kenan had practiced sustaining a rally as instructed, and when Yu Kenan admitted he hadn't, Mr. Zheng dismissed his single win over Fu Jingchun as insufficient to qualify.
Mr. Zheng emphasized that coaching decisions consider more than one elimination game. He told Yu Kenan to improve his ability to sustain a rally before asking for another chance, criticizing his problematic attitude and arrogance. Mr. Zheng sternly warned Yu Kenan that with his current attitude, he would never participate in a world-class competition as long as Mr. Zheng remained his coach.
He also reprimanded Xu Tan for lacking any discernible core skill, stating that he wouldn't be able to establish himself in the First team. Mr. Zheng declared that only elite athletes were worth his time. During a coaches' meeting, Fu Chuanzhi noted that with Fang Yue already retired, and Nie Rui Feng and Kang Ning nearing retirement, the First team would soon lack strong forehand players. He instructed the coaches to identify and quickly develop suitable young talents.
Fu Chuanzhi also subtly inquired about Fu Jingchun’s recent condition and whether his leg injury would affect his performance in the upcoming competition, which Mr. Zheng denied, claiming Fu Jingchun had almost fully recovered. In a later training session, Mr. Zheng assigned Xu Tan as a sparring partner for the newcomer, Su Shun, along with other players who specialized in forehand quick attack with loop drive.
During a long rally between Su Shun and Xu Tan (over thirty rounds), another coach observed that Xu Tan’s attack was impressive. However, Mr. Zheng pointed out that while Xu Tan's attack was good, his stamina was not up to par, and his hand was shaking towards the end of the rally. Yu Kenan, angered by Xu Tan being relegated to a training partner despite not losing, argued with Mr. Zheng.
Mr. Zheng again berated Yu Kenan for his arrogance, reminding him that many people dream of being world champions, and with his current skill, he was "ten thousand miles away" from achieving it. Feeling abandoned by Mr. Zheng, Yu Kenan returned to the dorm. Unable to contain his frustration, he confronted Xu Tan, who was diligently writing notes. Yu Kenan asserted that their current situation couldn't be solved by just writing, and firmly proposed that they should ask Fu Chuanzhi to change their coach.
Episode 28 Recap
After realizing they had been sidelined by Mr Zheng, Yu Kenan, fueled by indignation, discussed with Xu Tan the possibility of requesting a coach change from Mr Fu. Xu Tan was hesitant, reminding him that in the national team, coaches change players, not the other way around. Yu Kenan argued that they had fought hard to get where they were, believing they should earn their opportunities. Yet, all chances were solely decided by Mr Zheng, which he found unfair.
Xu Tan worried about the consequences, including being expelled from the national team. However, Yu Kenan firmly stated that any consequence was better than being a coward. He had waited and endured for two years, and believed they would be out of the team in another couple of years if nothing changed. He refused to be content with that outcome. Xu Tan, unable to ignore Yu Kenan's words, agreed to go with him to speak to Mr Fu.
Meanwhile, just before the World Table Tennis Championships, Fu Jingchun's foot injury flared up again, and it had reached a point where surgery was unavoidable; otherwise, it could affect his ability to walk normally in the future. Fu Jingchun had never realized his foot injury was so severe, yet he was determined to sacrifice a leg if necessary to play in the competition. This was Fu Jingchun's last chance to win a championship.
He insisted on temporarily suppressing the pain, concealing his injury from everyone, and rushing to the competition, determined to win a championship at the end of his career. Having coached Fu Jingchun for many years, Mr Zheng's affection for him was like that of a father and son. He was willing to fulfill Fu Jingchun's wish to play, but the team would not allow it.
Despite the grim prognosis and the doctor's warning that he might not be able to walk normally if he didn't undergo surgery, Fu Jingchun was determined to play in Moscow. He pleaded with Mr Zheng, his coach, to let him compete, swearing he would win the championship, emphasizing it might be his last chance. Moved by Fu Jingchun's desperation, Mr Zheng made the difficult decision to let him play.
As Yu Kenan and Xu Tan prepared to find Mr Fu, Mr Zheng stopped Yu Kenan, informing him of a team jersey press conference and an opponent analysis meeting for the World Table Tennis Championships. Yu Kenan initially dismissed it, asserting he didn't care for such things and knew the meeting was meant for those going to Moscow. However, Mr Zheng strongly implied that this was Yu Kenan's opportunity, saying he was the one going.
Realizing he had been selected for the World Table Tennis Championships, Yu Kenan called Xu Tan, who was already at Mr Fu's office door, to tell him not to go, explaining it was difficult to discuss over the phone. Just then, Fu Jingchun emerged from the office looking dejected, and Mr Fu saw Xu Tan standing outside, hesitating.
With his decision already made, Xu Tan went in and requested a coach change, only to find other coaches already present in the room. Later, back in their dorm, Yu Kenan angrily confronted Xu Tan for going despite his call. Xu Tan, noticing the "guest badge" around Yu Kenan's neck, retorted, accusing Yu Kenan of stopping him for that very reason.
Their relationship strained significantly, and for a period, Xu Tan seemed to lose his spirit, mechanically going through training and picking up ping pong balls, as if his heart was unsettled. At the Moscow World Table Tennis Championships, Yu Kenan, alongside Zhao Yang, Ye Zhen Xin, Nie Rui Feng, and Xia Ke, made his international debut in the Men's Team event.
The Chinese team, with Yu Kenan described by commentators as a "fierce tiger" dominating his opponents, successfully defeated Germany to win the Men's Team championship. During this time, Zhang Caiwei, who was in Germany, met the Chinese women's team, including Xiao Jun, who had also won a gold medal. Seeing their success made Zhang Caiwei yearn for her own achievements.
She told Yu Kenan that she was considering applying for German citizenship, as the German coach had promised her the top player position if she joined. Yu Kenan was shocked and upset that she hadn't discussed such an important decision with him. Zhang Caiwei explained she had been thinking about it for a long time but hadn't finalized her decision. She expressed her deep frustration, feeling like everyone else was moving forward while she was stuck, just watching.
She was only 24 but felt pressured to retire and desperately wanted to win a medal in a real competition, believing it was her only chance. Yu Kenan tried to reassure her, saying that their success was intertwined, and her medal was his. He urged her to wait until he became the Men's Singles World Champion, promising she could do anything she wanted upon returning to China.
Zhang Caiwei, however, argued that it wasn't the same; she wanted to win it herself and asked him, for once, to consider things from her perspective. Their conversation ended in an unresolved argument, and she walked away. After the Moscow championships, Fu Jingchun underwent surgery for his foot injury, which now required him to use crutches, signifying the end of his competitive career.
He confronted Mr Zheng in his office, with Mr Qin also present, sarcastically congratulating his "Master" on raising another World Champion. He questioned why Mr Zheng had him removed from the competition, reminding him that he had devoted everything to Mr Zheng since he was sixteen, always following his instructions. Mr Zheng explained that playing with an injury was too risky, making his removal a reasonable decision.
Fu Jingchun was incensed, recalling Mr Zheng's past words that the championship was paramount and worth any sacrifice, and he had been willing to give up his leg for it. He accused Mr Zheng of being guilty and afraid to tell him himself. Mr Zheng denied being guilty. Their emotional exchange escalated until Fu Jingchun shattered a glass panel in Mr Zheng's office with his crutch, declaring that from then on, his affairs were none of Mr Zheng's business.
Later, Mr Zheng discussed the decision with Mr Fu. Mr Zheng disagreed with replacing Fu Jingchun, emphasizing that Fu Jingchun was his player and any such change should have been discussed. He argued that Yu Kenan was also his player, but Fu Jingchun had more experience for a major competition, and his opportunities were dwindling, while Yu Kenan would have more chances. Mr Fu clarified that it was a notice, not a discussion.
He stated that Yu Kenan was more suitable for the competition and needed the training opportunity to grow. Mr Fu explained that a coach must often prioritize the team's interests over individual feelings, even if players don't understand, citing his own past decision to replace Qin Zhen as an example. This was the coach's responsibility. Separately, Mr Zheng gave a lecture about the importance of a core technique for a ping-pong player, likening those without a "one-move wonder" to substitutes.
Xu Tan overheard this, interpreting it as a direct blow to himself, and felt completely disheartened. The national team soon geared up for the Rotterdam World Table Tennis Championships. The Men's Singles roster included Ye Zhen Xin, Xia Ke, and Yu Kenan. This was Yu Kenan's first time competing in a world-class Men's Singles event. In the semi-finals, he faced Kim Sung-wu from Korea, leading three-zero.
Commentators noted his aggressive form, completely dominating his opponent with a "champion's aura," earning him the nickname "Tiger Yu Kenan." He won his match and advanced to the finals. However, a major upset occurred when China's top seed, Ye Zhen Xin, lost to Japan's young genius, Ryumoto Tomokazu, ending his journey in the semi-finals. This placed immense pressure on Yu Kenan, as the entire hope for China's Men's Singles title now rested on his shoulders.
In the final match against Ryumoto Tomokazu, also a heavy offensive player, commentators observed Yu Kenan's unusual strategy. Despite being known for his strong first three strokes, he completely abandoned this specialty in the first game, opting for a defensive tactic. Ryumoto Tomokazu, known as "Team China's killer" in Japan and buoyed by his recent victory over Ye Zhen Xin, aggressively attacked and scored several consecutive points. Yu Kenan's uncharacteristic play raised concerns about his current state.
Episode 29 Recap
During the World Table Tennis Championships finals, Yu Kenan was competing against a Japanese player. After a poor performance in the first game, he received harsh criticism from Mr Zheng, who questioned his focus and strategy. Mr Zheng urged him to buck up in the next round, telling him not to embarrass the team and to defeat his opponent. Yu Kenan, whispering to himself, found the constant shouting annoying.
Commentators observed that Yu Kenan's initial defensive play in the first game was a calculated move to assess his opponent's weaknesses. In the second game, he found his rhythm, executing brilliant, strategic shots that left his opponent struggling. Yu Kenan reflected on his journey, how he had distanced himself from family, given up friendships, and neglected his lover, Zhang Caiwei, all for his ambition to become a world champion.
He also recalled past arguments, including one where he told Xu Tan he didn't need him to teach him what to do, and another where he argued with Xu Tan about the national team's choices, implying that Xu Tan had abandoned their joint effort to change coaches, while he himself chose the opportunity to play. Amidst the enthusiastic cheers of the Chinese audience, Yu Kenan ultimately stood on the world champion podium, his victory infecting everyone present.
In a post-match interview, he was congratulated on winning his first World Table Tennis Championships men's singles title and earning the nickname "Tiger Yu Kenan." When asked whom he wanted to thank, Yu Kenan expressed gratitude to many people, including team leaders, teammates, Mr Fu Chuanzhi, Mr Teng Biao, his parents, and his girlfriend, Zhang Caiwei.
He then stated that he also wanted to thank a very important person, without whom he wouldn't be where he was today, believing that person was watching and would understand – this person, as the plot reveals, was Xu Tan.
When pressed if this important person was his coach, Mr Zheng, Yu Kenan conspicuously replied, "No." Later, when directly asked if he had anything special to say to Mr Zheng, Yu Kenan stated that Mr Zheng had deeply influenced him, but he couldn't remember the details. Meanwhile, other coaches, Mr Fu and Mr Gong, discussed Yu Kenan's interview behavior, with Mr Gong suggesting Mr Zheng needed to adapt to how he dealt with young players.
While Yu Kenan celebrated, Xu Tan was in a boxing gym, working out intensely to release his pent-up frustration. He imagined himself as a champion, standing on the world stage, wishing to exhaust himself to stop overthinking. This blow was heavy, and Xu Tan, while not minding Yu Kenan's choice, was disappointed by his dishonesty.
His teammates, Yu Zhenxin and Xia Ke, had discussed how Xu Tan's request to change coaches was serious, possibly leading to his expulsion from the team. Later, Mr Fu Chuanzhi called Xu Tan in and offered him a choice between Lvteng Sport University and Lvteng Normal University, emphasizing that both were good schools and nobody in the national team could do as they pleased.
Xu Tan tried to argue that he could adjust and even offered to return to the provincial or second team, but Mr Fu reiterated that Xu Tan had many personal issues and needed to stop training and readjust, implying that despite the choices, the decision for him to leave the national team for university was firm. Xu Tan asked if this was because he wanted to change coaches, to which Mr Fu affirmed his need for a training suspension.
Resigned to the situation, Xu Tan signed the application form for Lvteng Normal University and quietly left the national team. Yu Kenan tried to intercept Xu Tan as he left, calling his name and making a familiar gesture of camaraderie, a signal they used when battling opponents like Xia Ke and Yu Zhenxin, but Xu Tan, still harboring resentment over Yu Kenan's earlier decision and disappointed by his dishonesty, did not respond.
Back home, Xu Tan's mother, who had always opposed his ping-pong career, unexpectedly offered comfort. She admitted she had opposed his playing out of fear of his suffering, but now, seeing his perseverance, she believed his university placement might not be a bad thing, encouraging him to view the situation from a new perspective. She reassured him of her unwavering support, whether he chose to continue his studies or return to ping pong.
Before, Xu Tan was always submissive, never resisting anything around him, facing all bad things with a smile, but this setback stole the young man's smile and friendliness. His father also offered encouragement and provided him with a laptop for his studies. Both parents drove him to the university, reiterating their support and advising him to rest when tired but to persist if he truly loved the sport.
Liu Shi, worried about Xu Tan, tried calling him repeatedly but couldn't reach him. He confronted Yu Kenan, asking what happened to Xu Tan and why he was suspended. Yu Kenan was dismissive, telling Liu Shi to do as he wished.
Shortly after, Mr Zheng confronted Yu Kenan about his interview, warning him of the consequences of his comments and admonishing him not to become arrogant just because he won a championship, using Xu Tan's current situation as a cautionary tale for those who don't trust his training methods. Later, Mr Zheng received a phone call, which suggested a follow-up related to Yu Kenan's relationship announcement.
Meanwhile, Zhang Caiwei called Yu Kenan, angry that he had publicly disclosed their relationship in the interview without consulting her. She argued that she was also an athlete and did not want to be known merely as "the champion's girlfriend," feeling that he didn't understand her perspective. Yu Kenan, dismissive of her concerns about media attention, suggested she return from playing commercial matches in Germany.
Zhang Caiwei retorted by asking him to put himself in her shoes, but Yu Kenan simply stated he wouldn't stay there. Yu Kenan continued to win championships, and although he no longer argued with Mr Zheng, they remained irreconcilable, and he never thanked Mr Zheng in interviews. Zhang Caiwei disliked being labeled as the champion's girlfriend, and their relationship became increasingly fragile. Xu Tan arrived at Lvteng Normal University to register as a sophomore transfer student.
It was raining, and Wang Siheng, the enthusiastic manager of the university's table tennis team, offered to guide him to his dormitory with an umbrella. However, Xu Tan, now withdrawn and cold, politely declined her help and walked alone through the rain. He settled into his dorm, which was largely empty except for his new roommate, Xiao Sa, who was immersed in a noisy video game. That night, Xu Tan was disturbed by Xiao Sa's loud gaming.
After some hesitation, Xu Tan finally spoke up, asking him to quiet down. Although Xiao Sa initially retorted, he soon acknowledged Xu Tan's need for sleep and logged out of his game. In class the next day, Xu Tan continued his old habit of standing up to answer questions, taking copious notes, and habitually clapping at the end of class, drawing curious glances from his peers.
His professor kindly informed him that university was different from high school and that while notes were fine, it was more important to follow the lecture. Feeling out of place and isolated, Xu Tan gathered his books at the end of class, reflecting on his new and unfamiliar environment.
Episode 30 Recap
Despite recovering from surgery and returning to training, Fu Jingchun's enthusiasm and mental state had drastically changed, making him feel like a pawn abandoned by Mr. Zheng. Yu Kenan felt indignant for Fu Jingchun, but Fu Jingchun himself, though not completely giving up, no longer possessed his former drive and ideals. Meanwhile, Liu Shi had found a lead about his mother and occasionally contacted Xu Tan.
During one such phone call, Xu Tan expressed his sadness about being unable to play and urged Liu Shi to continue playing for him, to which Liu Shi responded hopefully that Xu Tan might be called back. Liu Shi's daily routine consisted of regular training, but both he and Ma Chuan noticed that Yu Kenan had become more silent since Xu Tan's departure. When Xu Tan later called Yu Kenan, Yu Kenan notably refused to answer.
During training, Liu Shi suddenly experienced severe back pain. He received a massage from Yuan Ran, an intern from the ping pong medical team, and was instantly captivated by her gentle demeanor. Ma Chuan, seeing Liu Shi in distress, immediately called Coach Qin Zhen.
Qin Zhen was anxious about Liu Shi's injury, an old wound flaring up during training, and tried to check on him, but the team doctor prevented him, stating that Yuan Ran was giving Liu Shi a massage. Yuan Ran skillfully worked on Liu Shi, first easing the soreness, then performing a bone-setting adjustment. Liu Shi, despite the initial pain, felt much better and, charmed by Yuan Ran, playfully called her a "little fairy."
The conflict between Yu Kenan and Mr. Zheng was irreconcilable. While Yu Kenan had started to consider others' feelings and show care, he still refused to exchange any unnecessary words with Mr. Zheng. He intended to visit Liu Shi after training but was forcibly held back by Mr. Zheng, who insisted he redo the last few points for not being up to standard, despite Yu Kenan asserting he had completed his training perfectly.
Despite their ongoing antagonism, there were underlying similarities between them. Later, Teng Biao came to speak with Mr. Fu about some matters. Yu Kenan, waiting until they finished, arranged to meet Teng Biao and was delighted to learn that Teng Biao was applying for a First Team coach position.
Yu Kenan expressed his hope that Teng Biao would get the role, believing it would relieve him from the pressure of being the top seed and the frustration of dealing with the uncommunicative Mr. Zheng. Yu Kenan also called his girlfriend, Cai Wei, who congratulated him on Teng Biao's potential arrival.
Yu Kenan told her that he wished to be by her side and even offered to pay a contract breach penalty to visit her, but Cai Wei, no longer a "young girl moved by such declarations," insisted she had to get back to her training. At university, Xu Tan maintained a solitary existence.
His roommate, Brother Xiao Sa, a natural extrovert, showed Xu Tan how to use the computer to look up information and often pulled him along for meals and basketball. On the basketball court, Xu Tan initially seemed disengaged, and others, including Brother Xiao Sa, even "disliked" his playing. However, as a new game began, Xu Tan's gaze sharpened, and he adopted a ping pong stance, finally revealing his true skill.
During the game, Xu Tan spotted Lin Hao Zhi, an old acquaintance who had previously left the training camp. The reunion lightened Xu Tan's mood, finally giving him someone to confide in. Xu Tan shared his frustration about Yu Kenan's choice, not because of the decision itself, but because Yu Kenan hadn't told him, making him feel like he wasn't considered a friend.
Lin Hao Zhi, who had found happiness without ping pong, comforted Xu Tan by reminding him of their old math teacher's words: "life doesn't only revolve around ping pong." He urged Xu Tan to embrace this new life, noting that Xu Tan was "kicked out" of the national team rather than just taking a break.
Although Xu Tan preferred to keep his national team past a secret, Lin Hao Zhi had already shared it with his girlfriend, Li Chun, and other friends. As it happened, Li Chun was good friends with Wang Siheng, the university's ping pong team manager. Upon learning of Xu Tan's background, Wang Siheng immediately took an interest in recruiting him.
She had Lin Hao Zhi bring Xu Tan to the school ping pong club under the pretense of a friendly match, staging an "accidental" encounter. Xu Tan effortlessly defeated Lin Hao Zhi. Just as Lin Hao Zhi felt embarrassed, Wang Siheng arrived, feigning a chance meeting, and formally invited Xu Tan to join the team, reminding him that she had offered to help him on registration day. Xu Tan, however, politely but firmly declined.
Wang Siheng, determined, sought out Coach Feng Zhong He, the Lvteng Normal University ping pong coach, who had a strong background from the Beijing team and a history of winning against sports colleges. Despite Wang Siheng's impassioned plea not to "lose such a talent," Coach Feng seemed hesitant. After she left, he received a phone call, muttering about someone finally "not holding back."
Wang Siheng later confronted Xu Tan again, detailing the team's strong credentials, but Xu Tan remained uninterested, claiming he didn't know Coach Feng. With Brother Xiao Sa and Lin Hao Zhi's company, Xu Tan began to gradually adjust to university life, but his past unresolved issues lingered; he considered himself someone "kicked out" by the national team and was unwilling to play ping pong again.
Meanwhile, on the basketball court, a recurring rivalry flared up between Xu Tan's group and Yang Meng's group. Yang Meng was known for playing dirty, and their frequent clashes escalated into a challenge: a game to decide who claimed the court. Xu Tan, now possessing a newfound fierceness, accepted the challenge, using his skill to counter Yang Meng's fouls. However, Yang Meng, cunningly, injured Xu Tan's ankle.
Wang Siheng, witnessing the foul play, confronted Yang Meng, revealing Xu Tan's national team status, only for Yang Meng to taunt Xu Tan about being "kicked out." In a moment of anger, Xu Tan punched Yang Meng to the ground. Given Xu Tan's years of physical training in the national team and a brief period in a boxing gym, his punch ensured Yang Meng would be subdued for a while.
Wang Siheng later brought him ointment for his ankle, which Xu Tan accepted. Learning that Wang Siheng liked Pikachu, Xu Tan reciprocated by giving her a Pikachu-themed power bank. Wang Siheng then apologized for impulsively revealing his national team past, admitting her mistake.
Episode 31 Recap
Wang Siheng, claiming she had no umbrella, insisted Xu Tan walk her back to the school team in the rain. As they walked, she apologized for her earlier bluntness about his national team past, encouraging him to think about himself for once. Xu Tan stated he quit ping-pong for his own sake, not out of spite, and explained his belief in extremes: either pursue something to its utmost or abandon it entirely.
He confessed he no longer knew why he played. Upon seeing Lei Cheng, Xu Tan instinctively tried to avoid him. Lei Cheng, however, confronted him directly about choosing Green Vine Normal University over a sports school, asking if it meant he had given up ping-pong. Xu Tan explained that returning to the national team would only make him a training partner, which wasn't his ambition.
Lei Cheng pressed him for a simple yes or no, and Xu Tan, cautiously, agreed to play if Lei Cheng would coach him. Soon after, Xu Tan was in his dorm, where his new roommate, Liu Jia Hao, introduced him to an online game called Asktao, helping him create a character. Back at the training hall, Feng Zhonghe observed Lei Cheng coaching Xu Tan.
He remarked to Wang Siheng that he hadn't seen Lei Cheng so happy in twenty years, since Lei Cheng and a former partner formed a doubles team. Wang Siheng then sought out Feng Zhonghe, asking him to talk to Xu Tan about joining the school team. She revealed Xu Tan was a national player, which made Feng Zhonghe initially reluctant, saying he couldn't coach someone of that caliber.
Wang Siheng clarified that Xu Tan faced a mental hurdle and just needed someone to talk to, but Feng Zhonghe retorted that it sounded like a job for a psychologist. Despite his reservations, Feng Zhonghe later watched Lei Cheng put Xu Tan through drills, during which Lei Cheng reflected on his own past, stating that if he could reincarnate, he would still play and strive to be a world champion.
During a team meeting, Feng Zhonghe asked Xu Tan, who had experience in the national team, to analyze a video of Yu Kenan's match. Still struggling with past events, Xu Tan denied knowing Yu Kenan. Lei Cheng stepped in, describing Yu Kenan's formidable backhand banana flip and his balanced offense and defense, emphasizing that top players must possess unique skills.
Later, Xu Tan grew worried when he heard a hospital announcement in the background during a phone call with his father, Xu Zhan Kun. His father quickly dismissed it as a routine work-related physical exam and abruptly hung up, leaving Xu Tan unable to reconnect. Concerned, Xu Tan became withdrawn and late for training, unresponsive to his teammates. Wang Siheng noticed his unusual demeanor, wondering if he was always so resistant to making friends.
That evening, Xu Tan finally reached his mother, who quickly fabricated a story about a spontaneous trip to Jiuzhaigou, claiming they were on a plane, and assured him his father was fine. After hanging up, his parents exchanged knowing glances, revealing they were intentionally hiding his father's illness to prevent him from worrying and disrupting his studies. Xu Tan set aside his personal worries and returned to training with renewed focus.
Re-watching Yu Kenan's match, he was now willing to critically analyze it. He acknowledged Yu Kenan's recent improvements, describing his play as having immense quality that no one could withstand, like a "big hand grabbing a hairy crab," simple but overwhelmingly powerful. Lei Cheng asked Xu Tan how he would face Yu Kenan.
Lei Cheng advised either a full defensive strategy, waiting for an opponent's mistake, or, to win, an aggressive counter-loop, stating, "offense is the best defense; fighting violence with violence is the most effective method." Xu Tan worried about the high error rate of counter-loops. Lei Cheng challenged him, saying he wasn't unable to do it, but "dared not" to, and stressed the importance of speed, explosive power, and resistance training, concluding, "a counter-loop breaks all."
Xu Tan then began intense counter-loop training with Lei Cheng, eventually hitting a ball so powerfully it knocked over a table surround behind Lei Cheng, demonstrating his burgeoning strength. Meanwhile, the national ping-pong team announced an upcoming exchange event to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Chinese ping-pong team first winning the World Table Tennis Championships men's team trophy in Lvteng, which Kang Ning and Fang Yue would attend.
Liu Shi continued to receive massages from Yuan Ran, a sports medicine intern who had studied in Germany. He was deeply smitten and learned that Yuan Ran was a devoted fan of Kang Ning and desperately wanted to meet him at this event. Recognizing that such an event was usually for champions, Liu Shi promised to find a way. He first tried asking Qin Zhen, who brusquely refused, accusing Liu Shi of aiming too high.
Undeterred, Liu Shi then learned Yu Kenan had received an invitation to the event and asked for his help. Yu Kenan, realizing Liu Shi's affection for Yuan Ran, agreed, but in return, asked Liu Shi to leverage Yuan Ran's German connections for a favor. Yuan Ran, hearing of Liu Shi's efforts, was deeply touched and praised him for his honest and kind nature.
Through her friend in Germany, Yuan Ran arranged a romantic surprise for Zhang Caiwei on Yu Kenan's behalf. Yu Kenan called Zhang Caiwei, asking if she liked his gift. He apologized for their past arguments about her going abroad, admitting his fault, but still encouraged her to return to China to train with top players. Zhang Caiwei reassured him that she was not avoiding anything and would seriously consider her future. As the Shenzhen Universiade approached, Feng Zhonghe asked Xu Tan to fill out registration forms and review opponent details. Xu Tan, however, decisively refused to participate.
Episode 32 Recap
Xu Tan had been training actively, and his mental state was gradually stabilizing. Coach Feng, noticing his progress, wondered why he was still unwilling to participate in the Universiade. Feng confided in Lei Cheng, who explained Xu Tan's current struggles were akin to a chess player reaching the pinnacle of their game only to have their board taken away, then being asked to play again after a long void.
Lei Cheng emphasized that Xu Tan needed to overcome this emotional hurdle to have a smooth path forward, otherwise he would stop there. He then informed Feng that he would be returning to the Beijing team for a few days and asked Feng to keep a close eye on Xu Tan during his absence. Feng inquired about the reason for Lei Cheng's trip, to which Lei Cheng replied that Feng "can't know too much" and would call if anything happened.
During training, Yu Kenan greeted coaches Fu Chuanzhi and Teng Biao, jokingly asking if Teng Biao was there for a job interview. Teng Biao advised him to stop clashing with Coach Zheng Hao, reminding him that Coach Zheng was a good coach. Yu Kenan, however, felt they would never get along.
Separately, Liu Shi excitedly told Yu Kenan that his childhood friend, Wu Chang Sheng, had come to Beijing after losing his home in an earthquake and planned to open an authentic Sichuan restaurant at the General Administration entrance. Liu Shi intended to invest a small amount, to which Yu Kenan praised his cleverness. However, Liu Shi then mentioned Xu Tan, causing Yu Kenan's good mood to dissipate.
Back on the court, Yu Kenan argued with Coach Zheng Hao about his technique. When Coach Zheng Hao reprimanded him and threatened to make him train with Ma Chuan and Liu Shi if he didn't fix his attitude, Yu Kenan retorted, defending Ma Chuan and Liu Shi and highlighting Coach Qin's excellent coaching. Liu Shi intervened, offering to practice with Yu Kenan, stating that Yu Kenan was simply curious about their training methods.
While practicing with Yu Kenan, Liu Shi's back injury flared up again. In the medical room, Yuan Ran informed him that the injury was a long-standing issue caused by improper chop shot techniques, assuring him they would cure it. Liu Shi, however, was pessimistic, believing the injury was more severe this time and lamenting the potential loss of income if he could no longer play ping-pong.
Yu Kenan tried to comfort him, telling him to prioritize his health over money, and expressed regret for letting Liu Shi play that game, but Liu Shi insisted the injury was not his fault and had been present for a long time. Later, Yu Kenan visited Liu Shi in the athlete apartment, who was struggling to move due to his injury. Yu Kenan had brought souvenirs from Shanghai, jokingly complaining that half his luggage was for Liu Shi's gifts.
Yu Kenan attended a press conference and signing ceremony with the Shanghai Thunder Club, where he was introduced as a rising star in the ping-pong world who had already amassed a large fan base. When asked about the attention he receives outside of games, he acknowledged the pressure of being a public figure but viewed it as a motivation, stating there were both pros and cons.
He shared that he decompressed by playing video games, finding them intellectually stimulating and brain-teasing. He also drew parallels between gaming and ping-pong, highlighting how both foster friendships and team spirit, mentioning the unity and camaraderie of the Chinese national team. He then took the opportunity to advocate for his injured teammate, Liu Shi, a chop shot player, asking for continued support.
He concluded by promising to train hard and fight for the country, striving to become an even better Yu Kenan. Later, he confided in Teng Biao, expressing his fierce determination to achieve a Grand Slam. He felt the weight of everyone's expectations and wanted to prove his capabilities. Teng Biao cautioned him against being too eager for instant success, warning that excessive pressure could become a burden.
Yu Kenan argued that everyone in the national team felt pressure, especially with coaches like Zheng Hao. Teng Biao defended Zheng Hao, urging Yu Kenan to be more amiable, but Yu Kenan countered by bringing up Fu Jingchun's situation, implying that being nice didn't always yield positive results. Teng Biao then reminded Yu Kenan of a lesson from their football days: to slow down and act only when the timing was right.
The Ping-Pong Super League season was about to commence, with the Tianjin Guo Ben Club hosting its home games at the stadium of Tianjin Lvteng Normal University. As the host university, the Lvteng ping-pong team was tasked with assisting the event organizers. After a meeting where tasks were assigned, Wang Siheng, the team manager, suggested a barbecue for everyone to relax after intense training. During the barbecue, Wang Siheng found Xu Tan sitting alone and approached him.
She subtly probed his personal life, asking if he had a girlfriend or had ever been "into someone." Xu Tan, recalling Lei Lei, admitted that he had liked a Beijing girl. He described her as tall, long-legged, with a small face, and "really violent," sometimes spraying people with a fire extinguisher when upset, but ultimately "quite cute." Wang Siheng's smile vanished as she asked if he still liked her.
Xu Tan explained that it was during his adolescence and that she now had a boyfriend. Hearing this, Wang Siheng's spirits immediately lifted, and her smile returned. Xu Tan, oblivious to her feelings, commented that he was starting to find university life quite enjoyable. Xu Tan decided to return a ping-pong paddle to Lin Hao Zhi, declaring that he had "reached the limit."
Lin Hao Zhi, however, refused to believe this was his limit, reminding Xu Tan of their past conversation about finding his own answers and understanding his true potential, not just becoming a world champion. The China Ping-Pong Super League officially began, with the first round featuring Fu Jingchun's Tianjin Guo Ben Club against Leng Yi's Henan Club, held at Xu Tan's university stadium.
Lin Hao Zhi observed that Fu Jingchun, once a prodigy, now played with stability but lacked his former fierce drive. Xu Tan attributed this change to an injury. After the match, Fu Jingchun approached Xu Tan, recalling an earlier conversation where he had proposed Xu Tan join a club, given his current "free" status.
Fu Jingchun, who had already joined the Tianjin team and applied to leave the national team himself because he knew he couldn't become a world champion, tried to persuade Xu Tan to join the Guo Ben Club, emphasizing the good pay and the opportunity to play together. He argued that leaving the national team didn't mean giving up ping-pong entirely, and that choosing one's path, whether as a star or a supporting player, was a personal decision.
Xu Tan, however, was reluctant to play solely for money after being dismissed from the national team, finding it hard to accept. A sudden, urgent phone call from his mother informed Xu Tan that his father, Xu Zhan, was gravely ill and had been hospitalized. He immediately rushed back home. The doctor explained that his father's condition was rapidly deteriorating and the only solution was an immediate liver transplant to prevent it from turning cancerous.
The total cost for the surgery, including liver donation, hospitalization, and post-operative care, was estimated to be 500,000 yuan. Without hesitation, Xu Tan decided to proceed with the surgery, as they had no other choice. While visiting his parents, Xu Tan's father asked about his university life, and Xu Tan reassured him that he was happy playing ping-pong without pressure.
Shortly after, Wang Siheng arrived at the hospital, having traveled from Tianjin to visit Xu Zhan on behalf of their classmates. Her sweet and thoughtful demeanor, including buying porridge for his parents to avoid the standard hospital food, charmed them. Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of creditors, Xiao Li and another man, who demanded payment for a debt of 100,000 yuan that Xu Tan's parents had owed for several months.
Xiao Li emphasized his desperate situation, stating his wife was threatening divorce over the money. Xu Tan intervened, taking the creditors outside to discuss the matter. He promised to repay the debt himself but asked for a ten-day extension, explaining his family's current difficulties. Upon learning of Xu Tan's family's plight, Wang Siheng quickly called her own parents and reached out to classmates to borrow money, believing they could cover the cost of the first stage of the surgery.
She offered the funds to Xu Tan, who gratefully declined, stating he had his own plan. His mother, also trying to relieve his burden, urged him not to worry about the money, suggesting she and his father, along with relatives, could manage. However, Xu Tan insisted that playing ping-pong was his job and he would take care of it. Wang Siheng, supporting his decision, assured his parents that Xu Tan was capable and that she would look after him. It became clear that Xu Tan's "way" was to accept Fu Jingchun's earlier offer and join the Ping-Pong Super League, playing for a club to earn the necessary funds.
Episode 33 Recap
Yu Kenan returned to his dormitory late at night, where Mr Zheng was waiting for him. Mr Zheng urged him to get enough rest to maintain his competitive form, emphasizing the importance of a structured routine, especially with the Paris World Cup fast approaching. Yu Kenan, however, dismissed these concerns, stating he would take full responsibility for his own results and Mr Zheng should not worry.
Mr Zheng countered that as a national team player, Yu Kenan's conduct and performance represented not just himself, but the team, the nation, and the sport itself. Yu Kenan then made a veiled remark about Mr Zheng's reputation for having only successful students and implied that those who had issues were the ones who left for university, clearly referencing Xu Tan. Angered, Mr Zheng demanded that Yu Kenan repeat what he said.
Later, as his teammate Ma Chuan was writing, Yu Kenan told him to stop, suggesting it wouldn't solve anything. When Ma Chuan asked for an alternative, Yu Kenan declared his intention to "change coaches." Ma Chuan then confronted Yu Kenan for going to speak with Mr. Zheng against advice, seemingly indicating Yu Kenan's previous attempts to address his grievances had been futile, reinforcing his desire for a change in coaching.
Meanwhile, Xu Tan's parents in the hospital temporarily no longer required his constant care, leaving him preoccupied with raising money for medical expenses and outstanding debts. On the bus back to school, Wang Siheng pretended to be asleep and leaned on Xu Tan's shoulder. She gently held his hand, which he then firmly clasped back, their unspoken feelings clearly mutual. Though unexpressed, a romantic relationship was established, finally bringing Xu Tan some joy and comfort after recent changes and exhaustion.
Driven by the urgent need to cover his father's medical expenses, Xu Tan, accompanied by Fu Jingchun, met with Mr Zhang of the Guoben Club. Fu Jingchun advised Xu Tan to seek the best possible terms. Mr Zhang reviewed Xu Tan's profile and acknowledged his potential but was hesitant to offer a top player's standard salary due to Xu Tan's lack of experience in the CTTSL and international competitions, proposing half the requested amount instead.
Xu Tan, reiterating his pressing financial situation, proposed an agreement: he would play a few matches for the club, and if he won them all, he would be signed at the main player's standard salary. If he lost, Mr Zhang could determine his annual pay. Soon after, Fu Jingchun contacted Xu Tan, expressing concern over the details of his new contract and asking if he knew who their next opponent would be.
Separately, Ma Chuan called Liu Shi, informing him of Xu Tan's signing that afternoon. Realizing that Tianjin's home game in the upcoming CTTSL season would be against Shanghai, Liu Shi understood that Xu Tan and Yu Kenan were set to face each other. Liu Shi then encouraged Yu Kenan to use this league match as an opportunity to reconcile and talk with Xu Tan, emphasizing the rarity of such friendships in life.
Before the match, the coach announced the lineup, with Xu Tan unexpectedly playing as the first singles player against Yu Kenan. Fu Jingchun was dismayed, pointing out that it was Xu Tan's debut in the Super League and that he hadn't fully recovered his form since leaving the national team, while Yu Kenan was in peak condition.
The coach explained the strategy was a deliberate tactic, a "Tian Ji's strategy," where a win against Yu Kenan would be a miracle, but a loss would be acceptable, allowing them to secure Xu Tan at a lower cost while Fu Jingchun, playing second singles, would be expected to win his match. Fu Jingchun suspected Mr Zhang had orchestrated this plan. Hearing Yu Kenan's name, Xu Tan, with a renewed sense of purpose, declared his readiness to play.
Concurrently, Mr Zheng advised Yu Kenan not to underestimate Xu Tan, who knew his playing style intimately. He stressed the importance of playing steadily in the first three strokes and avoiding recklessness to prevent embarrassment. As the match commenced, both Yu Kenan and Xu Tan were deep in thought, deaf to the outside cheers. Initially, Xu Tan managed to keep pace, even tying the score at one point by patiently waiting for Yu Kenan's errors.
However, Yu Kenan's formidable offense eventually took over, leading him to win the first game with a score of 11-6. During the break, Mr Zheng angrily chastised Yu Kenan for his rashness and for losing six points, reminding him of his earlier instructions. He expressed his profound disappointment that Yu Kenan struggled against Xu Tan, especially with the Paris World Cup so close. Meanwhile, Fu Jingchun advised Xu Tan to conserve his energy.
Coach Feng, acknowledging Xu Tan and Yu Kenan's shared training history, asked Xu Tan about his strategy for the next game, to which Xu Tan replied he would play defensively. In the second game, Yu Kenan quickly broke through Xu Tan's defense. Despite this, Xu Tan soon caught up, engaging Yu Kenan in an intense, back-and-forth battle.
Lin Haozhi and Wang Siheng were visibly excited by Xu Tan's impressive performance after his long hiatus, but Coach Feng remained skeptical, questioning if this was truly the World Champion Yu Kenan's full potential. Guided by a recollection of Lei Cheng's past advice about having the courage to use one's skills, Xu Tan executed a spectacular reverse loop.
The commentator enthusiastically declared it a "reverse loop of the century," celebrating it as a moment that "broke Tiger Yu Kenan's history" and exemplified the daring spirit of Chinese table tennis. Mr Zheng immediately called a timeout and angrily confronted Yu Kenan for losing control of the game's rhythm. He continued to berate Yu Kenan for his poor shots and for failing to defeat a university student who had been advised to leave the national team.
Yu Kenan defiantly countered that Xu Tan had simply played better in that game. He then erupted, accusing Mr Zheng's training methods of causing injuries to teammates like Fu Jingchun (his foot) and himself (his shoulder), implying they were merely sacrifices for Mr Zheng's personal glory and championships. Mr Zheng defended his record, highlighting the success and achievements of his players.
He ordered Yu Kenan back to the table, but Yu Kenan refused, declaring he would rather be suspended or expelled than endure Mr Zheng's coaching any longer, and vowed to have him replaced. The heated verbal altercation escalated, with Mr Zheng physically grabbing Yu Kenan, causing him to fall to the ground. The match was then suspended. Despite the abrupt end, Mr Zhang honored his agreement, and Xu Tan successfully signed the contract as a main player.
Mr Zhang humorously suggested that Yu Kenan might have intentionally lost to help his friend. Xu Tan, however, firmly denied any friendship, confidently asserting that he would have won the match regardless if it had concluded. The public altercation between Yu Kenan and Mr Zheng had severe repercussions, making headlines in sports news. Yu Kenan was suspended from training for a month.
He appealed, pointing out the Paris World Cup was less than twenty days away and that Mr Zheng had initiated the physical contact. However, a senior official, Mr Fu, remained resolute, stating there would be no bargaining as the national team maintained strict impartiality. Yu Kenan was instructed to await notification regarding his return to training. Xu Tan confirmed to Wang Siheng that his father's surgery was arranged, bringing a measure of relief.
However, Xu Tan expressed his profound regret that his match with Yu Kenan had, once again, been left unfinished, mirroring their previous incomplete encounter in the second team. He pondered if he should, ironically, thank Yu Kenan for the contract. Wang Siheng comforted him, assuring him that the incident was entirely Yu Kenan's fault and had nothing to do with Xu Tan.
She encouraged him, saying that as long as he continued to pursue table tennis, he would eventually get another opportunity to face Yu Kenan. Inspired by her words, Xu Tan wondered if he should participate in the Universiade. Wang Siheng enthusiastically supported the idea, telling him it was precisely where he belonged. To further lift his spirits, she playfully revealed that she was the chairman of his National Fan Club.
Later, Coach Feng announced that Han Dong Ming would represent Lvteng Normal University at the upcoming Universiade. Xu Tan approached Coach Feng, expressing his newfound desire to participate, despite his earlier lack of interest. Coach Feng, acting on Lei Cheng's strategy to push Xu Tan, cryptically told him to be patient for his chance. In a phone conversation, Coach Feng voiced his concern to Lei Cheng that their persistent pressure might be counterproductive.
Lei Cheng, however, insisted on "grinding" Xu Tan to the very end, believing he was on the verge of a breakthrough. He acknowledged Xu Tan's improved mental fortitude and drive after the CTTSL match but wanted to see the specific direction of his newfound ambition. Lei Cheng explained that Xu Tan was still missing "one last thing," which he promised to reveal in person.
During a subsequent meeting, Lei Cheng inquired about Xu Tan's father's recovery, which was progressing well and was expected to conclude within a month. He then discussed Xu Tan's league match, praising his performance but noting that it was unfinished and he had only managed to execute one reverse loop. Lei Cheng asked Xu Tan who he thought would have won if the match had been completed.
While acknowledging that both had a chance, Lei Cheng honestly stated that Xu Tan's probability of winning was slightly lower. He then challenged Xu Tan to identify his strengths beyond the reverse loop. Xu Tan described his technique as "all-round" and his forehand as "not bad."
Lei Cheng then pointed out that while Xu Tan's current skills were sufficient for most opponents, against top-tier players like Yu Kenan, his backhand weakness would be immediately targeted and exploited, leading to a decisive defeat. Lei Cheng urged Xu Tan to diligently refine his technique until it became an "invincible fortress," allowing him to control the game at will.
As a specific objective before the Universiade, Lei Cheng instructed Xu Tan to master Yu Kenan's signature backhand banana flip, and to develop it to an even higher quality than Yu Kenan himself. Despite the immense difficulty of the task, Xu Tan agreed to train relentlessly. Lei Cheng then unveiled a "secret weapon" he had tailor-made to aid Xu Tan's training.
Episode 34 Recap
Lei Cheng presented Xu Tan with a unique training tool: a heavy, lead-weighted pan with a coated bottom, specifically designed to practice the backhand banana flip. Lei Cheng explained that to achieve results more outstanding than others, one must put in more effort. He emphasized that if Xu Tan could master the banana flip with this special pan, he would become invincible with a regular racket.
Lei Cheng coached Xu Tan to focus on perfecting the movement, regardless of speed or whether he hit the ball. Xu Tan diligently trained day after day, significantly improving his physical endurance. Occasionally, Xu Tan experienced Wang Siheng's care, which, despite seeming like an overreaction to him, still touched him deeply. When Wang Siheng worried about his injured hand, he found himself grateful for her concern. Later, she gave him a red headband as a reward.
Xu Tan initially expressed his dislike for it, but Wang Siheng insisted he say he liked it, and he reluctantly complied. Through his consistent effort and improved skills, Xu Tan earned the respect of his teammates and secured his spot at the Universiade. Meanwhile, news broke among the team members in the cafeteria that Yu Kenan had been disqualified from the Paris World Cup due to his public altercation with Mr Zheng.
The entire incident had been captured on camera, leaving Mr Fu, the coach, no choice but to impose a one-month training suspension. With only twenty days until the Paris World Cup, this meant Yu Kenan would miss a crucial opportunity to advance towards his Grand Slam dream. Liu Shi, understanding Yu Kenan's deep desire for the Grand Slam, courageously appealed to Mr Fu, explaining that Yu Kenan was stubbornly concealing his true ambition.
Mr Fu, however, stated that the coaching team had already made a decision. Inspired by Liu Shi's stand, other teammates also came forward to plead for Yu Kenan, highlighting his intense dedication to training and the importance of his participation from a practical standpoint. Later, while having dinner with Dr Yuan, Liu Shi revealed that he considers Yu Kenan a "gifted player" who belongs on the table tennis court, questioning why a talent should be hindered from fulfilling his mission.
Dr Yuan noted that Liu Shi himself was a gifted player, always smiling when he talked about ping-pong. Liu Shi admitted that he also smiled when thinking of Dr Yuan. Eventually, Mr Fu announced the roster for the Paris World Cup, and to everyone's surprise and Yu Kenan's excitement, his name was included. Mr Fu sternly warned the team, "If you don't win this world championship, don't come back." Concurrently, preparations for the 2011 Shenzhen Universiade were underway.
Coach Feng made an exception for Wang Siheng to attend, but strictly instructed her to stay outside the Universiade village to ensure she wouldn't disrupt Xu Tan's rest, training, or matches. As the Universiade progressed, Xu Tan easily defeated opponents, clearing various international players to reach the finals. Prior to his final match, Xu Tan was on a phone call with Wang Siheng, telling her, "I won." She praised his "world-class counter loop" and expressed her pride.
Xu Tan acknowledged that he needed to regain his form through playing games but was thrilled to have reached the finals. Their sweet moment was soon overshadowed by the live broadcast of Yu Kenan's match. A commentator announced Yu Kenan's victory over Der Mark, securing his place in the World Cup finals and moving him closer to a Grand Slam.
Lei Cheng, watching the match with Xu Tan, observed that this game showcased Yu Kenan's true skill, something he lacked during the league. Teng Biao encouraged Yu Kenan to win, reminding him that this victory would bring him one step closer to achieving the Grand Slam, and that Zhang Caiwei was watching him. Zhang Caiwei, who had specifically traveled to watch Yu Kenan's match, chose not to enter the stadium.
Outside, she encountered Xiao Jun, finding an opportunity to express her deepest feelings. Zhang Caiwei confided that she intended to terminate her contract. She recalled Xiao Jun's words when she left the national team for the provincial team years ago, saying she was "tired." Now, Zhang Caiwei understood. While genuinely happy for Yu Kenan's ascending career, as an athlete, she felt an overwhelming desire to be like him and surpass him. She admitted she couldn't stop comparing herself to him.
She initially fell in love with his passion, determination, and stubbornness, qualities she shared. However, as he grew stronger, her ambition to surpass him intensified, leading to her feeling increasingly drained and misunderstood by him. She lamented that now, simply picking up a table tennis paddle made her think of Yu Kenan, making it impossible for her to play anymore. She concluded that they had become people from two different worlds.
Meanwhile, Yu Kenan successfully won his match, triumphing over his least favored multi-stroke loop style with a decisive comebacker. He became the World Cup champion, advancing yet another step towards his Grand Slam. Despite the victory, Yu Kenan appeared somber. This left Xu Tan, who was watching on a tablet, with a heavy heart, as he felt he lost his appetite. Lei Cheng, witnessing Xu Tan's reaction, urged him to eat for strength to train.
Simultaneously, in the Universiade finals, Xu Tan faced Shuichi Minamino from Japan. Shuichi Minamino was an experienced Japanese prodigy who had participated in numerous international competitions, making the Universiade feel like a practice match for him. The first game saw Xu Tan win relatively easily. However, from the second game onwards, Shuichi Minamino became aggressively offensive, leaving Xu Tan struggling to counter.
Lei Cheng, observing the match, noted that Shuichi Minamino's aggressive, fast-paced style, aiming for a quick victory, resembled Yu Kenan's play. He urged Xu Tan to change his approach, telling him not to fear his opponent and to respond with even more aggression, saying, "I'm not scared of you. I can be more aggressive than you." Taking Lei Cheng's words to heart and wearing the headband Wang Siheng had given him, Xu Tan's demeanor changed.
He started utilizing the backhand banana flip, a technique he had never used in an official match before, playing with unexpected ferocity yet maintaining a calm composure. He began to close the score gap, eventually pushing the match into a decisive tiebreaker.
In the final, critical point, Xu Tan envisioned Shuichi Minamino as Yu Kenan and made a familiar gesture from their doubles play, then, like a calm leopard awaiting its prey, he executed a powerful counter loop that defeated his opponent's style. Xu Tan won the men's singles title at the Universiade, prompting the entire arena to erupt in cheers, chanting his name.
As Xu Tan absorbed the sound of the crowd, he realized for the first time what he truly desired: to become a world champion, to stand at the pinnacle of global table tennis, and to defeat Yu Kenan. At a press conference, Mr Fu publicly announced Mr Zheng Hao's resignation due to personal family reasons. He also declared that Teng Biao, the former leader of the second team, would take over as Yu Kenan's new personal coach.
A reporter questioned whether Yu Kenan's light punishment for previous infractions was due to his champion status. Mr Fu responded that no decision satisfies everyone, explaining that a lenient punishment might be seen as a privilege, while a harsh one would be deemed unsympathetic. He clarified that this decision was made with the unanimous agreement of the coaching team and all the players.
Later, while in the restroom, Yu Kenan had an unexpected encounter with Jia Yu, who was dressed in a suit. Jia Yu, claiming to have opened a sports company, happily handed Yu Kenan his business card, offering his help. Yu Kenan, however, replied, "You've helped me enough."
Episode 35 Recap
Liu Shi, having invested in his hometown friend Chang Sheng's newly opened restaurant in Beijing, organizes a gathering. His intentions are twofold: to subtly encourage reconciliation between Xu Tan and Yu Kenan, and to bid farewell to Fu Jingchun, who is officially leaving the national team. Xu Tan attends the event with Wang Siheng and Lin Hao Zhi, feeling a moment of stiffness upon seeing Yu Kenan.
At the restaurant, amid some playful banter, including a friend attributing his luck in a mobile game to Xu Tan and Wang Siheng confidently remarking that others should be nervous to meet Xu Tan's friends, the group toasts to Xu Tan’s Universiade victory. Fu Jingchun then announces his official departure from the national team, expressing his honor for the years spent training and living with his teammates.
He congratulates Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, recognizing them as the future hope of the national team, and raises a glass to their shared dedication to ping-pong. As the evening progresses, Ma Chuan, under the influence of alcohol, brings up Mr Zheng's resignation. He suggests that Mr Zheng was overly strict and asks Fu Jingchun if he feels vindicated by the coach's departure. Fu Jingchun clarifies that his relationship with Mr Zheng was complex.
He admits that Mr Zheng, though tough, was effective and singularly focused on results. Fu Jingchun’s biggest regret was mistakenly believing that Mr Zheng, whom he saw as a father figure, would always stand by him. He eventually came to understand Mr Zheng's perspective and accepted that he needed to confront his own limitations regardless of the coach's presence. Xu Tan silently resonates with this sentiment.
Ma Chuan then directs his criticism at Yu Kenan, blaming him for Mr Zheng's exit and invoking the principle of "once a master, always a master." Yu Kenan, visibly angered, retorts that while a loss for Ma Chuan might only mean a reprimand, a loss for him at the Moscow World Championships would have ended his career. He passionately describes the frustration of possessing talent but lacking opportunity, feeling trapped as a mere training partner for champions.
He challenges them to consider what choice he had when his sole opportunity arose, asserting that if he could have, he would have replaced Mr Zheng even sooner. Overwhelmed, Yu Kenan abruptly leaves the gathering. Amidst the awkward silence that follows, Xu Tan receives a phone call. The call is from Fu Chuan Zhi, who, impressed by Xu Tan's performance at the Universiade, instructs him to report to the national First team the following Monday.
Xu Tan acknowledges that his long-awaited opportunity has finally arrived. Later, while still in university, Xu Tan spends time with Wang Siheng, who is looking at "Career Guidance for Fresh Graduates." They discuss future job prospects, with Wang Siheng humorously expressing a desire for a high-paying, easy job. Xu Tan suggests that happiness is paramount over money, reminding her that she also has her parents' support.
Wang Siheng playfully gets annoyed, and after some lighthearted teasing, they decide to extend their time together until the rain stops. In 2012, Xu Tan returns to the national First team. He is greeted by the new coach, Fang Yue, who commends his recent Universiade victory, particularly praising his final decisive serves. Xu Tan also encounters Wu Kai, a new team member, who expresses his admiration for Xu Tan’s powerful forehand serve against Nan Yet-yi at the Universiade.
Wu Kai asks Xu Tan to take a photo of him with the national flag, eagerly mentioning he'll send it to his mom—a sentiment Xu Tan fondly remembers from his own early days on the team. Fu Chuan Zhi announces the team restructuring for the upcoming Olympic preparations, assigning Xu Tan and Su Shun to train under Fang Yue. He stresses the critical importance of the next six months for Olympic training, urging everyone to give their utmost effort.
Fang Yue then speaks with Xu Tan, asking about his two years at university and if he still holds the ambition of becoming a champion. Xu Tan confirms his unwavering desire to win a Grand Slam, recalling Fang Yue’s previous words about the "winning feeling" being an athlete’s "most precious motivation." He emphasizes that his return is solely driven by his pursuit of victory. Xu Tan's fitness test report reveals exceptional scores in all areas except experience.
Observing this, Su Shun confidently asserts his superiority over Xu Tan, claiming that Xu Tan’s Universiade win was merely a concession from Yu Kenan, and challenges him to a match. Xu Tan swiftly defeats him. Xu Tan continues to internalize Fang Yue's advice on overcoming self-doubt and the necessity of focused action over passive contemplation, solidifying his renewed determination.
The delegation for the London Olympics is announced: Ye Zhen Xin, Yu Kenan, and Leng Yi are chosen, with Ma Chuan as a substitute and Liu Shi as a team training partner. Notably, Xu Tan’s name is absent from the list. Fu Chuan Zhi instructs Fang Yue that Xu Tan is a contemplative player who requires further refinement, expressing his hope to see Xu Tan’s name on future competition lists.
Fang Yue assures him that he is confident in Xu Tan’s potential. On the day of departure for London, Yu Kenan scans the crowd, seemingly searching for Xu Tan. Disappointed not to find him, he boards the bus. From his seat, he eventually spots Xu Tan standing in the distance, who offers a discreet but heartfelt gesture of encouragement. Although their relationship remains complex and distant, their mutual support for one another endures.
Later, Wu Kai complains to Su Shun about the grueling nature of training with Yu Kenan, describing him as training "like a crazy man" who demands high-quality serves without rest. Su Shun reminds Wu Kai that training with a powerful player is invaluable for improvement. Wu Kai then reveals that Xu Tan told him his playing style is similar to Yu Kenan’s, but warned that if he remains Yu Kenan's training partner, he "might never be able to become successful."
Su Shun, observing Xu Tan's recent change in demeanor, takes these words to heart. During the 2012 London Olympics, Yu Kenan faces Leng Yi in the men’s singles final. With a dominant performance, showcasing his formidable backhand banana flip, Yu Kenan clinches the victory.
He is celebrated as the fastest player in ping-pong history to achieve a Grand Slam, accomplishing it in a remarkable 445 days across the World Championships, World Cup, and the Olympics, thereby cementing his status as a leading figure in national ping-pong.
After returning from London, Liu Shi immediately heads to the medical center to find Yuan Ran, only to be informed that she is away for an internship and will not return until the following week, leaving him visibly disheartened.
Episode 36 Recap
After nearly two years, Xu Tan returned to the national team, where he encountered many new faces and observed the progress of his former teammates, leading to a shift in his own perspective. Despite these changes, Xu Tan remained immersed in his daily training, occasionally contacting Wang Siheng. His primary hope was to secure a spot in the upcoming World Table Tennis Championships.
One day, while his teammates were admiring Yu Kenan's photo on a magazine cover, Fang Yue approached Xu Tan, asking if seeing it made him uncomfortable. Fang Yue advised him to always look forward, sharing his own experience from the 2008 Olympics where many more talented players from his generation retired while he persisted.
Xu Tan reflected on the rapid emergence of new talents in the two years he was away, but Fang Yue reassured him that his experience made him more seasoned, and his career would be longer. Fang Yue emphasized that for a champion, the age of winning is not the most important factor, encouraging Xu Tan with the belief that he would get his chance.
Meanwhile, after winning the Grand Slam, Yu Kenan had become a huge sports celebrity, constantly surrounded by fans and media. During a photoshoot, a short, stout man from a sports agency tried to give Yu Kenan his card, noting he didn't have an agent and wanted to discuss a contract. Later, Yu Kenan got into a car, only to realize his "driver" was the same man.
Unable to leave, Yu Kenan was trapped as the man, claiming to be a loyal fan, began an elaborate pitch. The agent praised Yu Kenan's unique personality and sportsmanship, suggesting he could become the "Yao Ming of ping-pong" if properly marketed, inspiring more young people to play. He even brought up Yu Kenan's father, suggesting the deal would boost his father's arena business. Yu Kenan, asserting it was his own decision, eventually agreed to consider the offer.
Liu Shi, back from London, had been waiting for Yuan Ran at the infirmary door, where he fell asleep. Yuan Ran, who had been studying in Sichuan, found him there and called him silly for waiting so long. She presented him with a gift: her favorite hotpot paste. When she asked for her gift, Liu Shi fumbled, admitting he hadn't bought anything from England because he didn't know what she liked and couldn't read the labels.
He eventually produced a towel, initially bought for himself, which he suggested she could use for massaging others. Afterward, Liu Shi invited Yuan Ran to dinner with teammates at Chang Sheng's restaurant, where he intended to formally introduce her. Yuan Ran expressed discomfort about joining an old friends' gathering, but Liu Shi insisted, declaring she was his girlfriend.
Yuan Ran playfully chided him for not asking her first, prompting Liu Shi to officially confess his feelings and ask her to be his girlfriend. She teased him, saying she'd have to think about it, but then agreed by asking if he could be her boyfriend. Su Shun, feeling overlooked by his coach, Fang Yue, who seemed to favor Xu Tan, met with Jia Yu through his brother Su Chang.
Jia Yu, now a big boss at Lewen Sports, listened as Su Shun aired his grievances, complaining that all coaches, from Lei Cheng to Fang Yue, seemed to like Xu Tan more and teach him everything, leaving others feeling like outsiders. Jia Yu, pretending to be supportive, assured Su Shun that he and his brother would always stand by him and help him achieve his dreams.
Later, in the cafeteria, Fang Yue approached Su Shun and unexpectedly praised his recent training and improved playing, telling him to keep up the good work. Su Shun, though feigning indifference, secretly smiled. Wu Kai, observing this, teased Su Shun, noting his happiness and suggesting he communicate more with his coach. Wu Kai then advised Su Shun to distance himself from his unreliable "Big Brother" (Su Chang), who was a bad influence.
Su Shun tried to object, but Wu Kai, jokingly warning him about crossing lines in their rivalry, quickly diffused the tension. On Christmas Day, Liu Shi and Yuan Ran's plans for a romantic evening were interrupted when Yuan Ran learned Liu Jie was upset because Qin Zhen had rejected her invitation to celebrate.
Yuan Ran persuaded a reluctant Liu Jie to join them for dinner, where she skillfully analyzed Qin Zhen's character, suggesting he had an unresolved emotional blockage that made him push everyone away as a form of self-protection. Yuan Ran shared her newfound appreciation for the sacrifices national athletes like Liu Shi make, noting his love for ping-pong despite severe injuries. She suggested Qin Zhen saw himself in Liu Shi and needed someone to help him overcome his past.
Liu Jie was touched by this insight and agreed to reach out to Qin Zhen. It was then revealed that Liu Shi had orchestrated the entire conversation, asking Yuan Ran to persuade Liu Jie not to give up on Qin Zhen, hoping his friend would finally find happiness. Liu Jie, no longer angry, promptly decided to "bring warmth" to her "ice-cold master." That same day, Wang Siheng arrived in Beijing to surprise Xu Tan.
Unaware it was Christmas, she bought him a pack of inexpensive, "smelly socks" from a street vendor as a gift. Xu Tan jokingly complained about the quality, but Wang Siheng insisted he accept them and declare his liking. He then playfully vowed to wear the socks to win a world championship, offering to share the "champion's smell" with her afterward, an offer she quickly declined.
Wang Siheng expressed concern that once he became a world champion, he would be constantly traveling, making it difficult for them to see each other. Xu Tan, in a characteristic straightforward manner, responded, "Wouldn't that be good?" prompting Wang Siheng to suggest she could become his assistant to be with him daily.
Xu Tan, amused, rattled off a list of absurd demands for his assistant, including fresh civet coffee and being carried everywhere outside the court, causing Wang Siheng to glare at him for pushing his luck. After a period of dedicated effort, Xu Tan successfully rose to fourth place in the national rankings, believing this would secure him a spot in the Paris World Table Tennis Championships.
However, when the list of participants was announced, his name was absent, and the spot was given to Yu Kenan, who was ranked sixth. Wang Siheng called Xu Tan to congratulate him, only for Xu Tan to reveal his disappointment. Fang Yue passionately argued Xu Tan's case to Fu Chuanzhi, highlighting his hard work and strong performance in the direct tournament.
Fu Chuanzhi, however, maintained that for a major event like the World Table Tennis Championships, factors beyond ranking, such as tactical prowess, big game experience, and mental fortitude, were crucial. He explained that Xu Tan, having only won a Universiade championship since returning from university, lacked international experience. Yu Kenan, a Grand Slam winner with a proven track record against foreign opponents, was deemed the safer and more reliable choice.
Fu Chuanzhi further cautioned Fang Yue against rushing Xu Tan, recalling how a similar premature push in 2004 led to Fang Yue's own devastating loss in the Olympic finals to Park Ji-min, a moment that haunted him for years and almost ruined his career. Fang Yue acknowledged his past struggles, crediting Fu Chuanzhi for believing in him and giving him a chance to redeem himself at the Beijing Olympics. Fu Chuanzhi concluded that timing is paramount in a player's development.
Despite the explanation, Xu Tan was deeply disheartened, realizing that the reasons for his exclusion were the same ones he heard two years prior when he first left the national team.
Episode 37 Recap
Xu Tan confronted Fang Yue about the national team's decision, demanding to know why he was once again overlooked for the World Table Tennis Championships (WTTC). The team, after careful consideration, decided Yu Kenan was the more suitable choice, citing Xu Tan's insufficient experience and mental fortitude in major competitions.
Frustrated, Xu Tan pointed out that these were the same excuses given when he left the team, questioning what more he needed to do to prove himself worthy of a top player position. He highlighted Yu Kenan's current poor form, yet Yu Kenan was still given the opportunity. When Fang Yue suggested other competitions like the China Open or tournaments in Japan and Korea, Xu Tan dismissed them as incomparable to the WTTC.
Fang Yue urged Xu Tan to calmly reflect on the situation before they discussed further steps. While Xu Tan wrestled with his disappointment, numbing himself with training every day, Yu Kenan successfully defended his world champion title at the WTTC, solidifying his era in table tennis history. At the national team's celebration, Xu Tan deliberately avoided Yu Kenan, who was basking in the spotlight.
Jia Yu, ever the opportunist, approached Xu Tan with insincere greetings, then moved on to Yu Kenan. He showered Yu Kenan with congratulations, claiming to have always known he would become a ping pong legend. Yu Kenan, however, simply excused himself and walked away. After consuming a significant amount of alcohol, Yu Kenan was helped back to his hotel room by his agent.
Capitalizing on Yu Kenan's inebriated state, the agent presented a contract from a prominent sports company, promising to mold him into a sports superstar. Despite Yu Kenan's reluctance and concern about its impact on his training, the agent persistently pressed him, eventually forcing a pen into his hand. Without a second glance at the document, Yu Kenan signed it, hoping to silence his agent and get some rest.
Xu Tan, feeling utterly disheartened, confided in Fang Yue about the seemingly endless cycle: he had diligently improved his physical strength, attack, and backhand after being told he lacked in these areas, yet he was still without a chance at the WTTC. Without experience, he couldn't participate in world-class events, yet without participating, he couldn't gain experience.
Fang Yue, sympathetic to his plight, assured him that opportunities are earned through effort and promised to help secure chances if Xu Tan remained committed. That night, Xu Tan reread his old training journal from district training, which spoke of the daily agony of facing failure and the constant pressure. He recalled feeling less talented than others, like Yu Kenan, but also his unwavering resolve to "follow closely to Yu Kenan" as he had nowhere else to retreat.
The next day, Wang Siheng arrived to surprise Xu Tan, having found an internship in Beijing that would allow them to see each other frequently. She asked him to sign some farewell gifts for her former school team, proclaiming him a future world champion. Xu Tan, however, expressed his deep discouragement, feeling that despite all his efforts to improve his physical strength, attack, and backhand, he was still stuck in the same place with no hope for major tournaments.
Wang Siheng reassured him of his potential, affirming his eventual success. Inspired by her encouragement, Xu Tan declared his willingness to participate in any competition, regardless of its scale. Meanwhile, Liu Shi and Yuan Ran's relationship was progressing rapidly, with plans to meet Yuan Ran's mother. Ma Chuan, more anxious than Liu Shi, advised him on the serious nature of meeting her mother, stressing the need to understand her preferences to make a good impression.
Xu Tan's opportunity soon arrived in the form of an International Invitational Tournament in Shijiazhuang, which he initially viewed as just another commercial game. Fang Yue explained that many accomplished players from their era, including Chao Yang and Leng Yi, would be participating. He urged Xu Tan to understand that while some play for dreams or country, others play for personal or family reasons, and their drive can be formidable.
Citing Mr. Fu's wisdom that "experience is accumulated bit by bit," Fang Yue convinced Xu Tan to participate. In June 2013, Xu Tan competed in Shijiazhuang. The match was intense, with Xu Tan feeling noticeably nervous and missing several crucial opportunities. He ultimately lost by three points.
At this moment, he truly understood the meaning of "major competition experience" and the critical importance of a strong mentality, realizing that a similar performance in a WTTC could lead him into a psychological shadow akin to Fang Yue's. During the Dragon Boat Festival, Lei Cheng invited Xu Tan to his home for dinner. There, Xu Tan met Lei Lei's boyfriend, Ou Yang. Lei Cheng and Xu Tan's conversation quickly veered into ping pong, much to Lei Lei's annoyance.
Ou Yang recounted Lei Lei's 16th birthday, where even her cake was adorned with Double Happiness paddles. Lei Cheng, the designer of the cake, added that it also featured an auspicious phrase, then playfully labeled Ou Yang a "banana" due to cultural differences, causing some discomfort. Lei Cheng then advised Xu Tan to seek out more international invitational tournaments across Europe to encounter diverse playing styles and adapt to varying conditions like climate, language, and time zones.
He emphasized that overcoming these challenges would foster comprehensive growth and build invaluable experience for major competitions. While Xu Tan diligently participated in various international open tournaments, including the Poland Open and Croatia Open (as revealed in an end-of-episode summary), accumulating numerous championships, Yu Kenan engaged in high-profile public activities.
He appeared on television shows, playing ping pong with a rice paddle alongside singer Chen Fei'er, and boastfully claimed to have lost count of his world championships, estimating six or seven. Lei Cheng, concerned by Yu Kenan's behavior, called Teng Biao, criticizing his guidance and the national team's permissiveness, vowing to address the issue himself. Later, Yu Kenan called Xu Tan, dismissing the media's reports as fabrications.
He asked about Xu Tan's recent performance, to which Xu Tan mentioned struggling with jet lag. Meanwhile, Wang Siheng, struggling to adapt to her new job in Beijing, endured a dressing-down from her boss on the phone. Amidst a heavy rain, she slipped and injured her leg, which required a cast.
When Xu Tan called, wanting to meet before his Japan Open competition, Wang Siheng lied about being out of town and busy, intent on hiding her injury to prevent him from worrying and affecting his game. Xu Tan confided that he felt unconfident and stressed about the upcoming tournament. He confessed he missed her, and she reciprocated the sentiment, though she continued to avoid his calls.
At the 2014 Japan Open final, Xu Tan, holding two match points, defeated Japan's Ken Yasujima 11-8, securing the championship. He immediately called Wang Siheng to share his triumph, but she still didn't answer. Following his victory at the Japan Open, Xu Tan's world ranking soared to third. However, both Ma Chuan and Fang Yue observed a shift in Xu Tan's demeanor; he seemed increasingly detached. When Fang Yue inquired about his state, Xu Tan simply retorted, "I won, right?"
suggesting that victory was his sole concern. Fang Yue pressed him, urging him to reconsider his true motivation for playing. Xu Tan, without hesitation, stated he played "for my girlfriend" and promptly left to find her. Thanks to Fang Yue's tireless efforts in securing numerous competition opportunities for Xu Tan, Fu Chuanzhi announced the roster for the upcoming Asian Cup Table Tennis Tournament.
Xu Tan was selected alongside Song Min, Su Shun, He Qing, and Ma Yu Yang, with his rapid ascent to a world ranking of third being highlighted. Fu Chuanzhi praised Fang Yue for the invaluable experience Xu Tan gained and encouraged other coaches to develop personalized training plans for their players.
After the meeting, Teng Biao approached Fu Chuanzhi to argue for Yu Kenan's inclusion in the Asian Cup, asserting that Yu Kenan, despite his outward indifference, was eager to compete and that his shoulder injury would not impede his performance.
However, Yu Kenan's recent scandals had greatly displeased Fu Chuanzhi, who responded pointedly, asking if Teng Biao believed Yu Kenan's shoulder injury was truly "the only issue here," implying deeper concerns about the player's overall commitment and conduct amidst his controversies.
Episode 38 Recap
Liu Shi formally met Ranran's mom, appearing nervous despite his formal attire. Ranran's mom, aware that Liu Shi is an orphan, kindly offered to take care of all the wedding arrangements. She gave Liu Shi a valuable watch, a wedding gift from Ranran's grandfather to her parents, as a symbol of their blessing. She meticulously planned everything from engagement to marriage, asking only that Liu Shi take good care of Ranran.
Throughout the meeting, Liu Shi mostly listened, taking every word to heart. Later, while talking with Ranran, he explained that seeing how much her parents loved her made him realize he was no longer alone. He decided to retire at twenty-five, believing his professional table tennis career had no further prospects. He felt that by retiring now, he could pursue other skills and careers to ensure Ranran's happiness and provide a better future for them.
Ranran, touched by his sincerity, urged him to always make decisions that genuinely reflect his inner desires, without compromising for anyone, including her. Su Shun met Jia Yu again at Su Chang's request. Su Shun expressed his disapproval of Jia Yu's character, noting Jia Yu's history of making empty promises and sowing discord among players. He pointed out that Song Min, a promising player from the Universiade, had good skills but seemed naive, always following Xu Tan around.
Su Chang, however, was impressed with Jia Yu's resources and money, suggesting Jia Yu could package Su Shun into a sports star. Once Jia Yu left, Su Shun pleaded with Su Chang to distance himself from him. Su Chang revealed that his difficult years after leaving regional training, working various odd jobs like a courier, waiter, construction worker, and security guard, had made him pragmatic.
He confessed he had supported Su Shun's table tennis dream and now wanted to see him succeed by any means possible, including leveraging Jia Yu's connections. Su Shun, however, argued that true success in table tennis comes from becoming stronger through honest effort, citing Xu Tan's diligent rise as an example. He insisted on winning based on his own merit, not through underhanded methods. At the 2014 Busan Asian Table Tennis Championships, the host nation employed unfair tactics.
After Xu Tan's spare paddle was deemed illegal and his main paddle was sabotaged, he was forced to use Su Shun's paddle. Undeterred, Xu Tan declared that the player, not the paddle, was what mattered. He mounted a fierce counterattack, securing a crucial victory in the fourth game and rescuing the Chinese team from a difficult situation. This unprecedented comeback garnered him significant popularity.
Due to his rapid ascent in the world rankings, the ITTF awarded him the Breakthrough Star award. In a team meeting, Fu Chuanzhi praised Xu Tan's performance and his embodiment of the "spirit of ping pong," which involves having the country in one's heart, aiming for the world, bringing glory, and never giving up. Xu Tan, in his speech, thanked his teammates, especially Su Shun, for helping the team win the championship.
Meanwhile, Xu Tan's success prompted Yu Kenan to re-evaluate his own path. Su Chang, watching Xu Tan's triumph on television, reflected on his past arrogance towards Xu Tan, a tear falling on a table tennis paddle. Yu Kenan's agent brought him new endorsement opportunities and informed him that singer Chen Fei'er wanted to meet him for dinner.
Yu Kenan initially dismissed these offers, but later, while on a phone call with Liu Shi, he declined Liu Shi's invitation to a celebration dinner for the Asian Championships victory, claiming he was meeting Chen Fei'er. Soon after, news broke on mobile phones that Yu Kenan and Chen Fei'er had been spotted together at a Japanese restaurant. Despite this distraction, Yu Kenan recommitted to his training.
Although his physical test results showed a slight decline compared to his London Olympics peak, his overall condition remained top-tier within the First team, earning praise from Fu Chuanzhi for refocusing on his training. With Ye Zhen Xin's retirement, the First team captaincy became vacant. Fu Chuanzhi decided to hold a small retirement party for Ye Zhen Xin at the Garden Restaurant, also using it as an opportunity for the team to relax after strenuous training.
He then instructed the coaches to consider candidates for the new captain, emphasizing performance both on and off the court, and to gather opinions from the players. Fu Chuanzhi summoned Yu Kenan and Xu Tan, informing them that the exclusive glass training room, a symbol of immense importance within the national team, was now open for their use, urging them to cherish the opportunity.
He also announced the format for the upcoming Suzhou World Table Tennis Championships direct tournament, which would be a best-of-three match, with the top four players qualifying directly. Wang Siheng initiated a meeting with Xu Tan, and an unusual tension hung between them. Wang Siheng had changed her internship three months prior without informing Xu Tan, contributing to the awkwardness. She felt that their demanding schedules and inability to consistently support each other were straining their relationship.
During their conversation, Xu Tan expressed his feelings, stating that while everyone else expected him to win championships, she was the only one who truly cared about him. Observing Song Min's intense training session as Yu Kenan's sparring partner, Fang Yue noted that Song Min, though exhausted, refused to quit. Fang Yue believed that Song Min, who shared a similar playing style with Yu Kenan, possessed great potential.
He suggested that if Song Min could refine his technique, his skill ceiling might even surpass Yu Kenan's. Fang Yue also mused that Xu Tan could significantly enhance his own abilities by training against formidable opponents like Yu Kenan or dedicated sparring partners like Song Min.
Episode 39 Recap
Ma Chuan shared gossip with Song Min, revealing that Ye Zhenxin was moving to the Second team as a coach, a fact he confirmed by seeing the contract in the office. Ma Chuan confidently bet that Yu Kenan would be the next captain, but Song Min disagreed, believing it could be Xu Tan, who was an Asian Games champion, ranked world number one, and whose Grand Slam achievements were imminent.
However, Song Min admitted he hoped Yu Kenan would become captain so he wouldn't have to be his training partner anymore, expressing exhaustion from the role. Later, Xu Tan invited Song Min to practice, noting that while Song Min's backhand was strong like Yu Kenan's, his forehand needed improvement if he wished to surpass Yu Kenan. Inspired, Song Min offered to be Xu Tan's training partner.
During a coaching staff meeting, Fu Chuanzhi asked for opinions on the captain for the First team. Teng Biao nominated Yu Kenan, highlighting his Grand Slam achievements, world-class skills, extensive experience in international competitions, particularly being the most feared opponent by Japan and Korea, and his status as an idol for the Second team. While acknowledging a recent scandal, Teng Biao stated that Yu Kenan had reflected on the matter and matured significantly.
Fang Yue, however, recommended Xu Tan, pointing to his strong sense of responsibility, particularly evident when he overcame pressure at the Incheon Asian Games to secure a victory for China against the Korean team. Fang Yue believed Xu Tan’s strong sense of responsibility made him a more suitable captain. Another coach questioned Xu Tan's suitability, noting he hadn't yet won a world championship.
Fu Chuanzhi then emphasized that a captain represents the spirit of the team, and while strength is important, he prioritized strong psychological qualities. He ultimately decided that Xu Tan was the more fitting candidate and appointed him as the new captain of the First team, a decision that visibly surprised Xu Tan. Xu Tan celebrated his new appointment with Liu Shi.
During their conversation, Liu Shi reflected on his experiences returning from a disaster area, where he witnessed the fragility of life and realized that simply being alive was a blessing. He shared that since meeting Yuan Ran, he now thinks of her before taking any risks, vowing not to let her down as she has entrusted herself to him.
Had it been before meeting Yuan Ran, he would have played the Suzhou WTTC qualifiers even if it meant getting permanently injured. This prompted Xu Tan to reflect on his own relationship, realizing he had never truly considered Wang Siheng's feelings. He concluded that he might be a good player but was definitely not a good boyfriend. Xu Tan then prepared a special birthday surprise for Wang Siheng.
However, her reaction was not as he expected; after making a wish, Wang Siheng proposed they break up. A shocked Xu Tan noticed her injured leg, and she confessed that she fell in the rain and lied about being on a business trip to avoid affecting his game.
Wang Siheng explained that she was just an ordinary girl whose life had revolved around Xu Tan, even considering being his assistant, but after her injury and feeling helpless seeing a leaking water pipe at home, she could no longer continue. As Xu Tan grew busier, she felt uncertain about her place in his heart.
She expressed a desire to find her own dream, stating that leaving him was her first step, and wished him everything he desired, asking for his blessing in return. In 2015, the Suzhou World Table Tennis Championships (WTTC) Qualification Tournament began. On the first day, Leng Yi ranked first, Yu Kenan second, Su Shun third, Xu Tan fourth, and Liu Shi fifth. Yu Kenan was dealing with a shoulder injury that continued to affect his play.
Xu Tan felt a weakness in his leg due to a knee injury and ultimately lost to Su Shun, placing him in fourth. Liu Shi's lumbar injury had relapsed, and this time, it was more severe. Yuan Ran, upon seeing Liu Shi's injury, warned him that continuing to play without regard for his health could lead to unimaginable, severe consequences, potentially affecting him for the rest of his life.
She urged him to request leave from Qin Zhen and withdraw from the next day's match, leading to an argument. Liu Shi hesitated, weighing his own desire against Yuan Ran’s concerns. Later, Liu Shi confided in Xu Tan, revealing that he had submitted his Application Form for Leaving the Beijing Ping-Pong Training Team.
He explained that he fully understood his deteriorating physical condition and the increasing rarity of choppers in the sport, lamenting that he no longer even qualified as a training partner for top players. He felt it was time to leave, partly to care for Yuan Ran and not become a burden for her, and shared that Yuan Ran had cried and argued with him over his decision.
He declared he would not play in tomorrow's match and encouraged Xu Tan to perform well in the WTTC, promising to cheer for him in Suzhou. Xu Tan asked if Liu Shi was truly willing to give up, but Liu Shi offered no direct answer. Liu Shi then found himself outside the clinic, where he overheard Yuan Ran talking to Ms. Liu, a medical staff member.
Yuan Ran admitted she knew Liu Shi was unwilling to retire and that seeing his red eyes and his upset made her even sadder. She understood that if it weren’t for her, Liu Shi would have played despite his lumbar injury.
She worried that he would regret not joining the tournament for the rest of his life but affirmed her unconditional support for any decision he made, vowing to stay with him forever, even if he were to collapse on the court. Overhearing these heartfelt words, Liu Shi was moved to tears.
Determined to play and leave no regrets, Liu Shi returned to the training court and confessed to Qin Zhen that he had spent the night thinking and truly wanted to play this last match, calling it his final battlefield.
Initially, Qin Zhen scolded Liu Shi, reminding him that the national team was not a place one could come and go as they pleased and reiterated the severity of his injury, suggesting he wouldn't be able to play even if he qualified. However, Qin Zhen's resolve softened, and he pleaded with Fu Chuanzhi to give Liu Shi a chance.
Qin Zhen revealed his own lifelong regret of being replaced in a crucial game due to injury and expressed his profound desire to prevent his disciple from suffering the same fate, a plea he never made for himself. Moved by Qin Zhen's plea, Fu Chuanzhi granted Liu Shi the opportunity to play. Qin Zhen immediately called Ms. Liu to inform Yuan Ran that Liu Shi would be joining the game. Liu Shi was pitted against Song Min.
Song Min saw this match as a vital opportunity to break free from being a training partner and was fiercely determined to win. Liu Shi, however, reflected on his journey, recalling that being a training partner was once his means of survival, supporting himself and his grandmother.
His professional career began as a training partner, and it was through this role, diligently studying countless match videos, that he developed his chop tactics and earned a place in the National Second team, eventually finding his master. Liu Shi, a rare chop player, held steadfast to his belief in the sport and refused to easily surrender this singular chance to participate in the WTTC. During the match, another player commented that when Liu Shi first joined the national team, he defeated most opponents with his chop techniques, even Fu Jingchun.
Episode 40 Recap
During an intense match against Song Min, Liu Shi suddenly realized that the formidable chop player he had admired in an old video tape was none other than his own master, Qin Zhen. Despite a severe recurrence of his lumbar injury, Liu Shi pushed through the pain, determined to finish what he considered his last game.
He grimly reflected that he wished he had met his master sooner to have more time learning from him, but now he had to say goodbye. As he struggled, collapsing to his knees multiple times, Yuan Ran's presence and encouragement, shouting "Liu Shi, go for it!" , gave him renewed strength. He fought back, delivering a final powerful chop shot. The announcer declared, "Nice shot, Liu Shi! Chop shot is the king of singles!"
Although the shot brought him victory, Liu Shi collapsed on the ground, completely exhausted. Yuan Ran rushed to his side, asking if he was okay. After the match, Liu Shi approached Yuan Ran, explaining that he hadn't prepared a grand proposal because he'd been focused on the tournament. He knelt, holding the ping-pong ball from his final game, stating that their connection was forged through ping-pong and this was his last battle on the table.
He asked, "Yuan Ran, marry me!" She was deeply moved and accepted his simple, heartfelt proposal, much to the joy of those around them. Later, Qin Zhen spoke with Liu Shi, confirming his decision to retire. Liu Shi explained that Song Min hadn't played his best, and his own lumbar injury had worsened. He believed if he went to the World Table Tennis Championships (WTTC) and encountered problems during a match, it would be a disservice to the national team.
He clarified that the moment he decided to step onto the court, even if it meant death, he had accepted this would be his final game. Qin Zhen then asked if he had any regrets, to which Liu Shi firmly replied, "No regret." Qin Zhen revealed that his former coach, Mr Fu, had said the same words to him years ago, words that Qin Zhen had resented for many years.
He thanked Liu Shi, saying Liu Shi's decision made him understand how difficult he had made things for Mr Fu back then. Liu Shi encouraged Qin Zhen to cut down on drinking, and Qin Zhen, after a moment of characteristic defiance, declared he was going to quit drinking, with Liu Shi offering a grateful "Thanks." In the training hall, Xu Tan was warming up alone when he invited Yu Kenan to play, "Let's play."
During their practice, Yu Kenan noticed that Xu Tan had an injury on his right knee. The training session made Yu Kenan realize how long it had been since he had trained purely for the love of the game. Yu Kenan's agent tried to get him to attend an event, but Yu Kenan refused, cancelling all future activities to focus on preparing for the WTTC.
He emphasized to his agent that he was aiming to be the "WTTC champion," not just a CTTSL champion, and criticized the agent for underestimating their opponents. Yu Kenan passionately spoke about Xu Tan, whom he had played with for years, describing him as a true player who never took matches lightly. He even disclosed, "Even though his right knee is injured, he's still preparing for the game." Unbeknownst to Yu Kenan, his agent was an informant for Jia Yu.
The agent quickly relayed the information about Xu Tan's knee injury to Jia Yu, confirming that Yu Kenan had "given the game away" while intoxicated. Jia Yu immediately called someone, instructing them to inform the coach of Team Shanghai to have Song Min target Xu Tan's right side during their upcoming match. He explicitly told them not to let Song Min realize the true intention, but to present it as a strategic tactic.
Xu Tan’s knee injury continued to bother him. Yuan Ran, while massaging his knee, urged him to get an X-ray to assess the severity, stressing that it wasn't a minor issue. Xu Tan, however, insisted on keeping the injury a secret. Yuan Ran expressed concern that he would collapse before the WTTC even began, but he countered that she herself had played with an injury.
Yuan Ran clarified that her match was her last, while Xu Tan's journey was just beginning. As Yuan Ran left, she reminded Liu Shi, who was also present, to apply a hot compress on Xu Tan’s knee later. During the final round of the 2015 Chinese Table Tennis Super League, the commentator announced the highly anticipated match between the world number one, Xu Tan, and Shanghai Thunder Club's young talent, Song Min. Despite his injury, Xu Tan initially played well.
During a break, Song Min's coach criticized his performance, reminding him of the pre-arranged tactic to "manoeuvre him from left and right." Song Min argued that Xu Tan had already figured out his strategy. However, the coach insisted, reassuring Song Min that the tactic was working and to stick to it for the next round. Following these instructions, Song Min repeatedly targeted Xu Tan’s right side, forcing him into strenuous lateral movements.
Xu Tan's injured right knee ultimately gave way, causing him to fall to the ground. At the hospital, Fang Yue admonished Xu Tan for not disclosing his knee injury earlier, mentioning that Song Min had been shaken by his collapse and was waiting outside to apologize. Lei Cheng arrived, concerned.
The doctor explained that Xu Tan had a partial tear of the anterior cruciate ligament and, while he could be back on his feet in two weeks, continued training or playing could worsen the injury. Therefore, surgery to fully recover from the knee injury was recommended, which would require about six months of rehabilitation. Xu Tan dismissed the severity, focusing only on the WTTC.
Lei Cheng argued that risking his health for the rest of his life for one WTTC was not worth it, deeming the risk too high. But Xu Tan was resolute, stating, "I must play the game." Lei Cheng, frustrated by Xu Tan's refusal to listen, pondered aloud what he would tell Xu Tan's parents, feeling responsible for him. Later that night, Lei Lei discovered Xu Tan trying to get water from his wheelchair.
She had taken over from Lei Cheng, who was too weak to stay up late. Lei Lei questioned why Xu Tan was so against the surgery. Xu Tan explained that if he were still in his teens, he would accept it, but at the "end of my career," and "at my best," he had to endure any hardship. He emphasized that the WTTC and Olympics were his "last chance," and undergoing surgery would mean saying "goodbye to ping-pong."
He wanted to end his career on the court, having one last spirited match against the opponent he most wanted to defeat, stating, "That's worth it." Lei Lei acknowledged that they couldn't change his mind and urged him to think it through for himself. The next day, Liu Shi, Ma Chuan, Su Shun, and Wu Kai arrived at the hospital to visit Xu Tan.
Before entering, Liu Shi advised his teammates to be mindful of their words, noting that Xu Tan was likely in a foul mood. He also observed that Song Min dared not show his face due to the incident. Inside, Liu Shi commented on Xu Tan's agility in his wheelchair. He relayed that Song Min couldn't come because he had a game but sent his regards.
Liu Shi urged Xu Tan to follow the doctor's advice and rest, criticizing him for being disobedient. Su Shun presented a gift from the team, wishing Xu Tan a speedy recovery. Ma Chuan added that a larger gift was from Yu Kenan, explaining that Yu Kenan was busy but cared deeply, having asked about Xu Tan's injury the day before. Xu Tan, however, seemed unfazed by Yu Kenan's absence, simply stating, "It's okay. I'll leave him to it."
Episode 41 Recap
Xu Tan was in the hospital, moving his knee, and for a moment felt as though his injury had healed. However, Fang Yue and Dr. Xu who then entered the room had very serious expressions. Dr. Xu informed Xu Tan that further examination revealed his anterior cruciate ligament was not merely torn, but completely ruptured. He explained that this caused an imbalance in his knee, compounded by his naturally thin meniscus.
If surgery wasn't performed, and only conservative treatment was pursued, the strain from future training and matches would cause severe damage, potentially leading to permanent disability. Dr. Xu strongly advised immediate surgery. Despite the dire diagnosis, Xu Tan decided to conceal the true extent of his injury and resume training, but he couldn't hide it from Lei Cheng, his master.
Lei Cheng, having guided Xu Tan for over a decade, was dismayed that Xu Tan would be so reckless and seemingly self-absorbed. Xu Tan confessed that, unlike Yu Kenan, who was praised as "a natural leader" and "a great player," he saw himself as "a World No.1 who has never won a World Championship" and "don't have the look of a champion."
He felt this was his last chance to achieve his late grandfather's biggest wish of winning a World Championship, and he had no reason to give up. Lei Cheng pointed out Xu Tan's repeated use of "I" or "me" in his ambitious speech, indicating his heart was solely focused on himself.
Disappointed, Lei Cheng declared their master-disciple relationship over, questioning if Xu Tan truly understood the purpose of playing table tennis and reminding him that life encompasses more than just the sport. Xu Tan, feeling that table tennis was truly all he had left, was left standing alone in the snow. Upon his return to the national team, Xu Tan felt a pang of discomfort hearing teammates address him as "Captain."
He confided in Fang Yue that, having never competed in the three big games, he felt unworthy of the title and feared ending his career as the most incompetent captain in the team's history. He implored Fang Yue to keep his injury a secret. Fang Yue understood Xu Tan's predicament and agreed to keep silent, but made Xu Tan promise that if his condition worsened during a match, he must immediately concede.
Fang Yue also informed Xu Tan about a new change for the upcoming World Table Tennis Championships: the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) was implementing new plastic balls, which would require more endurance rather than just power, a change that suited Xu Tan's playing style. Fang Yue described this as a crisis for the whole team, but a potential turning point for Xu Tan, urging him to do his best but avoid overexertion.
The next day, Liu Shi, who was leaving the national team, gathered with Yu Kenan and Xu Tan for a farewell dinner. Liu Shi urged Yu Kenan and Xu Tan to put aside their differences and stop bickering. Later, Song Min approached Xu Tan, expressing his regret for the match where Xu Tan was injured.
He revealed that he had been a last-minute substitute and was specifically instructed by a coach to target Xu Tan's right side, believing it to be a strategic directive. Xu Tan assured Song Min not to feel guilty. This confession, however, caused Xu Tan to realize that someone might have deliberately caused his injury, and he couldn't imagine who else besides Yu Kenan, who knew about his knee, would do such a thing.
Overwhelmed by frustration, Xu Tan went to the training hall and began hitting ping pong balls intensely, despite his knee pain. During a coaching team meeting to select players for the World Table Tennis Championships, concerns were raised about Xu Tan's recent injury. One coach suggested that Su Shun, whose playing style closely resembled Xu Tan's, might be a more suitable and safer choice given the high-intensity nature of the tournament.
Fang Yue, however, passionately advocated for Xu Tan, emphasizing his current world No. 1 ranking, peak skills, and nearly recovered knee. Head coach Fu Chuanzhi ultimately decided that the German Open would serve as a final assessment: whoever, between Xu Tan and Su Shun, achieved better results, would secure a spot in the World Table Tennis Championships.
Before the team departed for the German Open, Yu Kenan made a phone call to Teng, stating he would not be attending the tournament due to an aggravated shoulder injury, claiming he needed to focus entirely on preparing for the World Table Tennis Championships. Teng tried to dissuade him, questioning how others would perceive his absence and arguing that the Open wouldn't hinder his preparation.
However, Yu Kenan remained resolute, insisting his decision was final, and the team left without him. In the German Open changing room, Song Min confessed to Xu Tan his lack of confidence in beating Su Shun, whom he had never defeated in over a dozen matches.
Xu Tan offered him tactical advice, suggesting that while Su Shun had strong endurance, Song Min should avoid continuous offense, focus on controlling the first three strokes, and exploit Su Shun's weakness in close-table short balls, particularly his forehand drop. Song Min, surprised by the detailed advice, questioned if Xu Tan feared him using these strategies against him in the future. Xu Tan calmly replied that these were common principles, and their effective application depended solely on the player.
Song Min then went on to defeat Su Shun in the semi-finals, utilizing the strategies Xu Tan provided. In the final, Xu Tan emerged as the champion, defeating Song Min. At a celebratory gathering, the coaching team commended Xu Tan's championship victory after recovering from injury and Song Min's impressive runner-up performance in his first international tournament, mistakenly believing Xu Tan's knee injury was fully healed.
Later, Su Shun approached Song Min, praising his performance and acknowledging that Song Min had fully controlled the pace of their match. Su Shun then revealed that the German Open was actually an assessment for both him and Xu Tan, due to the coaching team's concerns about Xu Tan's knee injury, and admitted his own skill was still inferior to Xu Tan's. This revelation struck Song Min, causing him to feel exploited.
He later confronted Xu Tan, expressing his hurt and questioning why Xu Tan, his long-time role model, would manipulate him. Xu Tan did not explicitly admit to the manipulation but simply stated that they both achieved their desired outcomes, and Song Min had ultimately benefited from the win. Later, Song Min discovered a list on a bed detailing match rankings and elimination criteria, which clearly indicated that Xu Tan's assistance had been a calculated scheme.
Episode 42 Recap
During a pre-tournament press conference, the team announced the roster for the World Table Tennis Championships, including Xu Tan, Yu Kenan, Ma Chuan, Leng Yi, and Song Min. Coach Fu Jingchun explained the strategic combination of experienced veterans and a promising newcomer to counter international players and nurture future talent.
Coach Teng Biao, when asked about his two former disciples, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan, lauded their immense dedication throughout their careers and expressed his hope that they would deliver their best performance in the upcoming competition. A reporter pressed Yu Kenan about rumors regarding his withdrawal from the German Open, suggesting he feared a direct confrontation with Xu Tan before the WTTC. Yu Kenan declined to comment.
When asked about the pressure of defending his title as a reigning champion and Grand Slam winner, Yu Kenan calmly stated that the WTTC posed stress for every participant, not just him. Meanwhile, Xu Tan, questioned about his knee injury, affirmed his recovery and sarcastically commented that his greatest concern when facing Yu Kenan was that Yu Kenan's powerful attacks might once again deliberately injure his knee, implying past unethical actions.
This jab deeply angered Yu Kenan, who clearly understood it as an accusation and confronted Xu Tan, demanding an explanation. Unknown to others, Xu Tan had gradually been influenced by Yu Kenan, becoming like him, with nothing but winning in his heart. A coach quickly intervened, ending the press conference prematurely and directing the players to return to training to cool down.
Backstage, Yu Kenan accused Xu Tan of mocking him, reiterating that he had fulfilled all his promises, including replacing Zheng Hao, and therefore owed Xu Tan nothing. Teng Biao intervened, reminding Yu Kenan of the public setting and trying to calm him. He advised Yu Kenan that attention and scrutiny are normal for athletes and essential to becoming a true national champion, and that he should focus on himself rather than what the media writes.
Yu Kenan expressed frustration that people wanted to see him lose and forget his Grand Slam status, only remembering his decline. The team leadership then held a meeting regarding Xu Tan's and Yu Kenan's inappropriate remarks. Coach Teng Biao apologized on Xu Tan's behalf, acknowledging that Xu Tan, as team captain, had made an ill-fitting joke, created a negative impression on the media, and set a poor example.
Another coach apologized for Yu Kenan's overreaction, which had tarnished the team's image. The head coach emphasized the need for unity against strong international opponents like Germany and Japan. As a consequence, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan were required to submit reflective essays and were prohibited from speaking to the media before the WTTC. The 53rd Suzhou World Table Tennis Championships in 2015, hosted by the ITTF, was a highly anticipated event.
This marked the fifth time China had hosted the tournament. Over 1,300 athletes, coaches, and officials from 134 countries were set to compete from April 26th to May 3rd at the Suzhou International Expo Centre. The venue itself was the largest and most advanced in WTTC history.
The tournament was expected to feature the strongest lineup of players in a decade, including top international stars like Fassbender of Germany, Koke of Spain, Demark of Sweden, Liu Benzhi, Nanno Shuichi, and Kangdao Jie of Japan, and Kim Seung-woo and Park Ji-min of South Korea, as well as China's "dream team," notably the "twin stars" Yu Kenan, a two-time champion, and Xu Tan, the world's number one ranked player and team captain.
The day before the final, Lei Lei called Xu Tan on the phone, encouraging him to perform well and not succumb to pressure, expressing her anticipation for his victory. Xu Tan also recalled his coach, Fang Yue's, advice to always remember the intense desire to win if he aimed for a World Champion title and a Grand Slam. In the semi-finals, Xu Tan swiftly defeated Song Min, securing his spot in the final.
Simultaneously, Yu Kenan overcame Japanese player Kangdao Jie, setting the stage for the highly anticipated "battle of the century" between the two "twin stars." Their massive fan bases had eagerly awaited this showdown, and tickets for the final sold out instantly, setting a new record. Just ten minutes before the final was to commence, Coach Fang Yue reminded Xu Tan to be ready.
A live broadcast revealed surprising news: Yu Kenan's coach, Teng Biao, would be absent, a rare occurrence that raised questions about its potential impact on Yu Kenan's performance. Meanwhile, Teng Biao arrived at a private box where Lei Cheng was already waiting. Teng Biao commented that Lei Cheng's gesture of sending him a specific racket had compelled his presence.
After Lei Cheng offered him some Biluochun tea from before the Qingming Festival, he challenged Teng Biao to a game of chess. Lei Cheng proposed that if he won, Teng Biao would owe him a favor, but if he lost, nothing. Despite Lei Cheng’s decades-long losing streak against him, Teng Biao agreed to the gamble. As their chess game began, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan walked onto the main court, greeted by thunderous cheers from their respective fan groups.
Commentators highlighted Xu Tan's strong forehand and strategic mind, contrasting it with Yu Kenan's powerful first three strokes and signature backhand banana flip, declaring it a clash between the "strongest spear" and the "strongest shield." The first game started with Xu Tan taking the lead early. He employed an aggressive, strong first three stroke strategy, quickly getting into an excited state, which Lei Cheng observed as a brilliant "driving straight into the enemy's den" approach.
However, Lei Cheng also cautioned that Yu Kenan was a formidable opponent. Despite Xu Tan's intense offense, Yu Kenan, patiently defending, managed to take the first game, leading commentators to note that the "spear" and "shield" seemed to have swapped roles. Lei Cheng remarked that he wasn't the only one whose style of playing had changed.
During the break, commentators discussed the impact of the new 40+ plastic ping pong balls, noting how their different properties—compared to traditional celluloid balls—demanded increased power from players, which in turn heightened the risk of injuries to muscles, bones, and soft tissues. This was particularly pertinent given Xu Tan's existing knee injury. Fang Yue confronted Xu Tan in the locker room, questioning why he deviated from their pre-game strategy by engaging Yu Kenan in a first three-stroke battle.
Fang Yue knew Xu Tan wanted to prove himself but stressed that only winning mattered and that defiant actions were futile. Xu Tan acknowledged his words. In the second game, Xu Tan demonstrated remarkable adaptability. He executed a chop shot, combined offense and defense, and even used a bounce attack, reminiscent of Liu Shi, a former national team chopper. Commentators called this a "secret weapon."
Teng Biao observed that this tactic was precisely what Coach Zheng Hao had once instructed Fu Jingchun to use against Yu Kenan. Xu Tan consistently attacked Yu Kenan's backhand, strategically controlling the game by changing the ball's trajectory, showcasing his profound understanding of his opponents' strengths and weaknesses. Lei Cheng noted the difficulty in mastering diverse techniques, even if learning them was beneficial.
Yu Kenan, a Grand Slam athlete, despite being initially caught off guard, swiftly adjusted his tactics, demonstrating his extensive experience and world-class skill. He continued his powerful attacks, earning praise for his splendid play. Xu Tan lost the second game, and commentators highlighted Yu Kenan's potential to become China's third triple men's singles champion if he secured one more game.
Xu Tan, however, continued his relentless assault on Yu Kenan's backhand in the fourth game, after having used the first three games as probes. This strategy yielded results, as Yu Kenan, usually strong with his backhand, made uncharacteristic errors. Xu Tan capitalized on these mistakes, winning the fourth game 11-6 and saving a match point. Lei Cheng observed Xu Tan's composed and thoughtful strategy, likening his earlier losses to "decoys" in chess, designed to set up his true intentions.
He mused that Xu Tan's ability to maintain such a complex plan was a testament to his mental fortitude, truly a disciple of his own calculated approach. Xu Tan then continued his winning streak, securing the fifth game "under impossible circumstances" and "after some hardships." Teng Biao inferred that Xu Tan must have meticulously analyzed Yu Kenan's past three years of matches, noting subtle changes in his backhand to formulate his current strategy of consistent backhand attacks.
Lei Cheng, contemplating his own chess game, remarked that one wrong move could unravel everything, adding that a player cannot blame an opponent who has clearly put in more effort. As the sixth game began, with Xu Tan having remarkably recovered from a 0-3 deficit to 2-3, the tension was palpable. During a continuous exchange of backhand flicks and loops, Yu Kenan suddenly collapsed on the court, clutching his right shoulder in obvious pain.
Commentators expressed concern, unsure of what had happened. Teng Biao revealed that Yu Kenan's backhand issues stemmed from a severe, long-standing shoulder injury, which he believed even Xu Tan might not have known the extent of. Yu Kenan requested a short pause, which the main judge, Mr. Malpoc, granted after checking his paddle. It was clear that the repeated backhand shots had severely aggravated Yu Kenan's shoulder, casting doubt on his ability to continue the match.
In the private box, Teng Biao asked Lei Cheng if he still wished to continue their chess game. Lei Cheng responded, "We have to finish this chess game," adding, "It's a deeply considered strategy. . . If I can't do it, you can. But I hold the advantage, and even if it's a losing proposition, I dare to go for it."
Episode 43 Recap
During a crucial match, Yu Kenan, experiencing severe shoulder pain, called for a timeout. He looked towards his father in the stands, recalling his childhood promise to win a world championship for him, a promise born from his father's relentless pressure to train and win. Despite his injury, Yu Kenan felt a surge of strength and returned to the arena.
Although he was known for his backhand, his shoulder injury prevented its use, so he began to use powerful forehand attacks, scoring consecutive points and causing Xu Tan's footwork to falter. Xu Tan's knee injury, which had been worsening, was further aggravated, leading him to take his only timeout. Meanwhile, Teng Biao and Lei Cheng were engaged in their own intense chess match.
Their game had reached a stalemate, where continuing would only lead to both sides suffering, yet neither Lei Cheng nor Teng Biao would choose to give up. Lei Cheng noted that Teng Biao hadn't played chess in a long time, but he himself had not stopped, suggesting it would be difficult for Teng Biao to win.
Lei Cheng also revealed Xu Tan's childhood fear of the dark, recalling a training session where Xu Tan, down 0-3, was brought to a dark athlete's aisle. Lei Cheng told him that walking through it was like dying and being reborn, which had helped Xu Tan overcome his fear and regain his composure.
They reflected on how their own youthful, excessive desire to win had led to their past falling out and regrets, seeing their younger selves in Xu Tan and Yu Kenan. Lei Cheng expressed his sole wish for Teng Biao to help him submit an application to the national team so he could personally mentor Xu Tan, hoping to prevent the young players from becoming unscrupulous for the sake of winning.
Xu Tan soon rejoined the game, both players having used their single timeout. The score was tight at 3-3, heading into the most crucial seventh game, and their injuries were apparent to each other. Despite the pain, Xu Tan demonstrated incredible foresight, predicting Yu Kenan's returns and positioning himself perfectly to score, ultimately dragging the match into a decisive seventh game.
The commentators lauded Xu Tan's strategic brilliance, dubbing him the "diviner of the national team," while also noting Yu Kenan's improved forehand skills under pressure. They emphasized the significance of this match, which would see the winner's name engraved on the St. Bride's Vase. In the seventh game, both players seemed hesitant to attack each other's injured areas—Xu Tan avoided Yu Kenan's backhand, and Yu Kenan avoided Xu Tan's forehand.
This led to a brief period of cautious play, where both were trying to predict the other's moves, a testament to their decade-long familiarity as opponents and former doubles partners. However, their intensity quickly returned, elevating the match to a white-hot intensity, a "ping-pong duel on the top of Mount Everest," as one commentator put it. As the match intensified, Fang Yue, concerned that both players were risking their careers, decided to apply for a medical suspension.
He expressed to Lei Cheng, his master, that if they continued, "their careers will end in this arena." During the suspension, Fang Yue confronted Xu Tan, reminding him of his severe knee injury and urging him to quit. He argued that withdrawing now would allow Xu Tan to compete in future Olympics, World Cups, and Grand Slams.
However, Xu Tan adamantly refused, declaring, "I don't care" about Grand Slams, and simply stated his reason for playing was "Because I like it. Very much." Simultaneously, Liu Shi spoke to Yu Kenan, imploring him to stop. He reminded Yu Kenan of their happy, carefree days in the second team before the pressure of championships, and warned him that continuing could end his career, just as it had for him and his teammate Fu Jingchun.
Despite these appeals, both Xu Tan and Yu Kenan chose to return to the table, driven by their passion for the sport. The final moments of the seventh game were tense. Yu Kenan's attack failed, and Xu Tan ultimately won the match, securing the 2015 Suzhou World Table Tennis Championships title, his first world championship. Both players successively collapsed on the court due to exhaustion and pain.
Following the match, a visibly emotional Yu Kenan changed his hairstyle back to its original look and stood before his father, Yu Ge, for the first time shedding tears. Yu Ge explained that he had named his son "Ke Nan" to symbolize his hope that Yu Kenan would reclaim the Olympic gold medal lost to Yoo Nam-kyu. He admitted that he had always pushed Yu Kenan to train, win, and achieve what he himself could not.
Even when Yu Kenan achieved good results in the past, his father never showed him warmth, but after this match, his father finally, for the first time, actively embraced Yu Kenan, giving him the greatest encouragement and comfort.
Acknowledging that Yu Kenan had surpassed him, standing "at a place higher than where the rest of us are," Yu Ge gave him an ornament, a gift from his own grandfather, signifying that from now on, Yu Kenan would walk his own path. Meanwhile, Xu Tan went to Lei Cheng's home, where he quietly enjoyed his master's homemade fried sauce noodles, an unspoken understanding passing between them.
Lei Cheng told Xu Tan that he had watched the final match and that while Xu Tan once believed he chose ping-pong, now he understood that ping-pong had also chosen him. Lei Cheng encouraged him to continue working hard. Despite his victory, Xu Tan faced a critical decision regarding his knee injury. A doctor confirmed that his collapse during the match had further damaged his meniscus, and the condition was worsening.
The doctor advised immediate surgery, warning that a delay of a year could severely impact his career. However, Xu Tan steadfastly refused, explaining that the upcoming Rio Olympic Games, which was a year away, would be his first and last opportunity to compete, and surgery now would prevent him from participating. He chose to temporarily suppress the injury, even if it meant lifetime disability, to preserve his chance at the Olympics.
Episode 44 (Ending) Recap
After Xu Tan secured the world championship, he found himself on the training field with Song Min. Song Min congratulated him on his victory, his tone laced with sarcasm, stating he admired Xu Tan's ability to defeat Yu Kenan, but implied Xu Tan achieved this by any means necessary. Xu Tan only smiled faintly and continued to casually hit the ping-pong ball in his hand. Xu Tan then purchased a large house in Beijing, bringing his parents from their hometown.
His father, overjoyed by the spacious new home, proudly declared that their current prosperity was due to his insistence on Xu Tan pursuing ping-pong, which had also funded his successful surgery and cleared their family debts. When Xu Tan asked his mother if she was unhappy, she reassured him, expressing her deep pride from the bottom of her heart, explaining that her past strong opposition was only out of worry and concern for him.
The national team began intensive Olympic preparations, with Mr Fu (Fu Chuanzhi) demanding full cooperation. Xu Tan apologized for concealing his knee injury (ligament rupture), but Mr Fu revealed that Mr Fang had already informed him. Mr Fu then inquired about Xu Tan's plans post-championship. Xu Tan expressed his strong desire to compete in the Rio Olympic Games. Mr Fu acknowledged the fierce competition from Germany and Japan, emphasizing Xu Tan's indispensability, especially for the team event.
However, participating meant postponing his knee surgery. Mr Fu had arranged for a specialized foreign rehabilitation team to strengthen Xu Tan's knee muscles, a treatment with successful precedents that, while not a complete cure, would enable him to compete in better condition, requiring immense effort. Xu Tan, knowing this was likely his first and last chance to compete in the Olympics as he was nearing thirty, declared such difficulties insignificant, promising not to jeopardize the national team.
Mr Fu warned him that any relapse would lead to his replacement. He then assigned Xu Tan and Song Min to train for the doubles event, and when Xu Tan asked about Yu Kenan, Mr Fu stated the team had its own arrangements. Xu Tan received a phone call from Liu Shi, who excitedly invited him to be a best man at his wedding to Yuan Ran.
Liu Shi also mentioned he had invited Yu Kenan, but he hadn't picked up the phone yet, jokingly threatening to cut ties with both of them if they didn't attend. On the wedding day, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan accompanied a nervous Liu Shi to pick up the bride. The bridesmaids presented challenges: first, a series of questions about Yuan Ran and Liu Shi.
Xu Tan and Yu Kenan expertly answered them, with Yu Kenan notably recalling Yuan Ran's favorite anime character, "Mitsui," and Liu Shi's first love, "Little Fairy." Next, they were tasked with hitting a ping-pong ball onto four "happiness" characters pasted on a window using a single paddle. This challenge was designed to test their tacit understanding, specifically if they would instinctively choose the same target. They accomplished it flawlessly, showcasing their inherent teamwork.
Inside, Liu Shi emotionally declared to Yuan Ran, "I'm actually not good with words. And I have no idea what to say now. But I'll use my whole life to prove that I love you." During the wedding ceremony, Yuan Ran gave a heartfelt speech to Liu Shi. She recounted his past remark about being "born from a stone" and parentless, acknowledging the underlying pain despite his laughter.
She expressed wishes to travel back in time to grow up with him, erase his sad memories, or, as a superman, find his mother. Lamenting her inability to do these things, she promised him her entire life, vowing to be his friend, lover, and family, and to provide him with a happy home. Later at the reception, Qin Zhen approached Mr Fu (Fu Chuanzhi), raising his glass and calling him "Master," signaling their long-awaited reconciliation.
The plot also revealed that Qin Zhen and Sister Liu had finally become a couple. While with Liu Shi at the reception, Xu Tan and Yu Kenan reflected on their shared past. Flashbacks showed a younger Xu Tan telling Yu Kenan he found him "quite nice," despite others' harsh descriptions. Yu Kenan, then fiercely competitive, had retorted that he "didn't come here to make friends."
Another memory surfaced of Xu Tan covering for Yu Kenan in a trophy incident, taking the blame himself. A tipsy Liu Shi then exclaimed that he had truly found his "Little Fairy." Yu Kenan responded that their wishes had all come true, with him becoming a Grand Slam winner and Xu Tan having once defeated him (the Grand Slam winner). Xu Tan then proposed a toast to their shared ping-pong days.
During a team meeting, Mr Fu (Fu Chuanzhi) officially announced the national team members for the Rio Olympic Games: Xu Tan, Yu Kenan, and Song Min. He then imposed a strict ban on all commercial activities for the athletes until the Olympics, urging complete focus on preparation. Mr Fang presented data analysis indicating that Xu Tan and Song Min would form a more advantageous doubles partnership.
Based on this, Mr Fu declared the team's decision: Xu Tan and Song Min would compete in the men's team doubles, while Yu Kenan would focus on men's singles. Teng Biao expressed concern that this decision might dishearten Yu Kenan, who had always desired to partner with Xu Tan. Mr Fu, affectionately calling him "Mama Teng" for his excessive fretting, reassured him that Yu Kenan was no longer the hothead from ten years ago and had matured significantly.
Xu Tan and Yu Kenan were later seen playing video games together, their banter indicating a return to their comfortable old dynamic. Yu Kenan complimented Xu Tan's gaming skills, who playfully retorted against being underestimated. Yu Kenan then broached the topic of the doubles decision, acknowledging that Xu Tan and Song Min formed a strong team likely aiming for a gold medal, and that he understood the team's reasoning.
However, he requested Xu Tan to ask Mr Fu to stop trying to "talk sense into him." With a confident declaration, Yu Kenan proclaimed he would "book the gold medal of men's singles." Xu Tan, embracing their renewed friendly rivalry, playfully countered that he was "in charge of all kinds of booking" and adept at "getting rid of all kinds of dissatisfaction," before agreeing to "one more round."
Fu Jingchun visited Mr Zheng (Zheng Hao), who was in the hospital caring for his father, bringing him gifts. Fu Jingchun apologized for his past impulsiveness. Mr Zheng admitted he knew he was the least popular coach among the players. Fu Jingchun shared his previous belief that his sacrifices for ping-pong were unmatched, only to feel abandoned with only injuries.
He found renewed purpose simply by witnessing the sport, feeling alive whenever he saw a ball bounce on the table, realizing ping-pong was connected to his heart and pulse. Mr Zheng reflected, "One day, we will leave ping-pong. But ping-pong won't leave us." Just before the Rio Olympic Games ping-pong finals, a news report confirmed the Chinese men's team, including Xu Tan, Yu Kenan, and Song Min, had reached the finals, having already secured a gold and a silver medal.
The broadcast noted the steady performance of the original Xu Tan and Song Min doubles pair. Privately, Xu Tan reflected during a phone call with a friend, realizing, "Ping-pong is my everything. What I want is not to become some world champion or a Grand Slam winner. I just want to keep playing." His friend, reciprocating, shared his own budding interest in ping-pong and suggested they play together sometime, offering Xu Tan words of encouragement.
Shortly before the match, in a dramatic, last-minute decision, Mr Fu (Fu Chuanzhi) altered the men's doubles lineup, replacing the established Xu Tan and Song Min pair with Xu Tan and Yu Kenan. This unexpected change was immediately broadcast as headline news, completely disorienting the Japanese team, who had no prepared strategy against this duo. However, for Xu Tan and Yu Kenan, the two children born for ping-pong, their decade-long, undeniable synergy meant no prior preparation was needed.
As they stepped into the arena, brimming with confidence and exchanging words of encouragement, with everything from their past playing back like a videotape, the commentator lauded their entry as a moment of triumph for them and for China.
