In a historic reunion, athletes and officials from the United States and China gathered in Los Angeles on Sunday to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of “Ping-Pong Diplomacy.” The event honored the legacy of the 1971 meeting that helped thaw relations between the two nations through the unlikely medium of table tennis.
Chinese Olympic champions Ma Long and Liu Shiwen took to the tables for friendly matches against Connie and Dell Sweeris, members of the original 1971 U.S. table tennis team that made the groundbreaking visit to China. They were joined by young players from the current USA team, symbolizing the enduring friendship and competitive spirit fostered by the sport.
“I can feel their long-time passion for table tennis,” Ma Long remarked. “When they were young, they knew each player in the Chinese team very well. I think the friendship has always been there.”
Liu Shiwen added, “It feels like I went back in time. I can imagine them competing back in the days. When we play a game, it’s like the spirit of the sport has lived on.”
The original “Ping-Pong Diplomacy” began serendipitously at the 31st World Championships in Japan when American player Glenn Cowan missed his team bus. Chinese player Zhuang Zedong invited him to ride with the Chinese team, leading to a series of events that opened diplomatic doors. The Chinese government’s invitation to the U.S. team marked a significant step towards mending ties between the two countries during a tense period in history.
This anniversary not only commemorates a pivotal moment in international relations but also highlights how sports can bridge cultural and political divides. The celebration in Los Angeles serves as a reminder to younger generations of the power of friendship and mutual understanding.
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53rd anniversary of "Ping-Pong Diplomacy" celebrated in Los Angeles
cgtn.com
