In the world of table tennis, few names command as much respect and admiration as NI Xia Lian. A player of extraordinary longevity and grace, NI’s journey from the bustling City of Shanghai to becoming one of Luxembourg’s most beloved athletes is a testament to perseverance, passion, and unwavering dedication. Now, with her recent appointment as an ETTU Ambassador, NI embarks on a new chapter—one that transcends the boundaries of sport and focuses on connection, promotion, and strengthening ties between Continents. In an exclusive interview, she shares her story, reflections, and aspirations for the future.
When asked about her new role as ETTU Ambassador, NI’s gratitude and enthusiasm shine through immediately.
“I appreciate very much the opportunity to work with ETTU. They have placed their trust in me, and that is a great honor. As a player, I have gathered vast experience and built strong relationships over the years. My personality is warm—I love making people happy, and ETTU has given me the perfect platform to do just that. I will give my best to make the most of this cooperation,” NI shares with heartfelt sincerity.
Her appointment is not just symbolic—it’s strategic. With her deep-rooted connections in China’s media landscape and a following of over six million fans across various platforms, NI’s influence offers the ETTU access to new audiences.
“Europe has one of the strongest table tennis circuits globally. The competition here is fierce and exciting—something that fans in China don’t always get to witness. My goal is to introduce this passion and intensity to China and to the world, sharing the beauty of European table tennis with millions who love this sport globally.”
Born in Shanghai, Ni started playing table tennis at just 7 years old. By her teenage years, she was already a member of the Chinese national team. Her early career was marked by tremendous success, including gold medals in team and mixed doubles at the 1983 World Table Tennis Championships.
But NI’s story didn’t end there—it took an unexpected turn. She moved to Germany in 1989 and later settled in Luxembourg in 1991. What followed was a career defined not just by victories, but by resilience and reinvention.
Competing for Luxembourg, NI made history, participating in five Olympic Games from 2008 to 2024. Remarkably, at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, she became the oldest table tennis Olympian at the age of 58. In 2021, she secured a bronze medal in women’s doubles at the World Table Tennis Championships with Sarah DE NUTTE, marking a historic achievement for Luxembourg.
Her impressive career also includes multiple European Championships medals, with a silver in doubles in 2000 and bronze in doubles in 2018. She further cemented her legacy by winning the Europe Top 12 tournament three times in a row (1996, 1997, and 1998), along with capturing the Europe Cup of Champions title in 2002. She also triumphed in the Champions League, securing victories in 2008 and 2010.
“Every step of my journey has taught me something new. From my early years in China to finding a home in Luxembourg—each experience has shaped who I am today.
NI’S impact goes far beyond the table. In Montreux, during the CCB Europe Top 16 Cup, she not only competed but also worked behind the scenes to promote the event on a global scale. She brought representatives from CCTV Han YANG, Chang Sheng MEI from Sunflower and M&U International Mo WANG. In addition, the former three-time winner of this competition provided live commentary on douyin, connecting millions of Chinese fans to European table tennis.
“Media is essential for the growth of our sport. I cherish these connections and see the media not just as professionals, but as friends. I want to use every opportunity to share Europe’s passion for table tennis with the world. It’s a win-win for everyone,” she says.
Despite her growing responsibilities off the court, NI isn’t ready to hang up her paddle just yet.
“Especially in China, people want to see me continue playing as long as possible. Their support motivates me to keep going. I will try my best, though I know I can’t fight nature forever,” she says with a smile.
While many see her as a successful businesswoman, NI offers a different perspective.
“I wouldn’t call myself a businesswoman. I don’t believe in working purely for money. My approach is all about building friendships—genuine connections with people who share my passion for the sport. We help each other, and that’s what makes every project meaningful,” she explains.
With an enormous following and millions of viewers for her videos, NI’s influence extends far beyond sports. Among her followers are influential businesspeople, but also children—future stars who draw inspiration from her journey.
Reflecting on her departure from China decades ago, NI acknowledges that her journey wasn’t always understood at first.
“When I left China, many people didn’t understand. But now, they see my role differently. I want to be a bridge—someone who brings the East and West closer together through sport, friendship, and mutual understanding,” she shares.
Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed—NI remains the only foreigner in history to receive a national award during China’s National Day.
“I’m incredibly proud to represent Luxembourg and bring its name to China. Many people thought Luxembourg was just a city in Germany, but now they want to visit and learn more about the country,” she says proudly.
From her face on airport billboards across China to her role as a symbol of connection and understanding, NI Xia Lian has achieved far more than sporting greatness. She’s a global ambassador, a mentor, and a bridge between cultures.
As she steps into her role with the ETTU, her mission is clear: to inspire, connect, and elevate table tennis—bringing the heart of European competition to every corner of the world.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about sharing love, respect, and joy through sport. That’s what makes every effort worth it,” NI concludes.
She also already holds an ETTU badge of honour.
NI Xia Lian’s Major Achievements:
- 1983 World Champion in team and mixed doubles
- 1998 European Championships winner in singles
- 2002 European Championships winner in singles and mixed doubles
- 1996, 1997, 1998 Europe Top 12 winner
- 2002 Europe Cup of Champions winner
- 2008, 2010 Champions League winner
- 2000 European Championships silver medal in doubles
- 2018 European Championships bronze medal in doubles
- 2021 World Championships bronze medal in doubles
