By Henry Chen 

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen….” Liu Guoliang, through a recorded video, started his acceptance speech in English last night in the 2016 ITTF Star Awards held in the capital city of Qatar, Doha.

“I am very happy to receive the best coach award from the ITTF. I am grateful to the ITTF and the judges for the support and trust.” The Chinese head coach continued.

In the evening of 8th December, Liu Guoliang was awarded as the best coach for the year 2016. This follows his success in leading the Chinese Team in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games and once again maintaining their high status in the sport.

Of course, Liu Guoliang was very thankful for everyone who helped him in such success.

“I am most thankful to all the players and coaches of the Chinese National Team who were with me in our quest in the Rio Olympic Games.” He said.

Coach Qin Zhijian received the award in behalf of Liu Guoliang who was not physically present in the evening.

As the leader of the strongest team in the world, Liu Guoliang would like to use their influence in promoting the sport much further. He aims that table tennis will have a wider reach and audience in the coming year.

“Let us together promote the table tennis sport into more areas in this world under the leadership of the ITTF in 2017. Let us make people feel the charm and the development of the sport. Once again, thank you to the judges.” Liu Guoliang concluded.

The Chinese Team battles in this week’s Seamaster Qatar 2016 ITTF World Tour Grand Finals. Once again, the clear favourites to win the championship title are from their roster.

Ma Long, Xu Xin and Fan Zhendong play in the Men’s Singles wile Ding Ning and Zhu Yuling are in the Women’s Singles.