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Table Tennis Star Lily Zhang Aims for Fifth Olympics

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Lily Zhang, a United States table tennis Olympian, began playing at age seven while waiting for laundry.
Her father, a math professor, introduced her to the sport.
By age 12, she joined the US national team.
She competed in the 2012 Olympics.
Now 29, she returned for the 2016 Games and excels in Major League Table Tennis, aiming for a fifth Olympic appearance in 2028 and emphasizing enjoyment over results.

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Story summary

Lily Zhang, a United States table tennis Olympian, began playing at age seven while waiting for laundry.
Her father, a math professor, introduced her to the sport.
By age 12, she joined the US national team.
She competed in the 2012 Olympics.
Now 29, she returned for the 2016 Games and excels in Major League Table Tennis, aiming for a fifth Olympic appearance in 2028 and emphasizing enjoyment over results.