Interview with Fan Yi Yong

U.S. #1 Rated Player

By Larry Hodges 

Photo by Gerry Chua ©2002

Home City: Seattle WA. Originally from Shandong, China

Age & Date of Birth: 33 years old, born on Jan. 22, 1969.

What equipment do you use, and who are your major sponsors?

I use a Juic Fan Yi Yong paddle, Juic rubber 999 Elite for my forehand, Montjuic Super for my backhand. Juic and Paddle Palace are my main sponsors.

What was your best ranking ever?

Top 20 world ranking in 1989, and currently #1 in the U.S.

Where are you from, and where did you grow up?

I was born in China. I grew up in Shandong and Beijing.

How did you get started in table tennis, and how old were you?

When I was 8 years old I started to play table tennis at the local sport center for fun.

Who were your coaches and clubs during that time?

I had several coaches. The best coach has already passed away. When I was 12 I played at several training centers in Shandong, and at 16 I was selected to the national team.

Where do you currently play and train?

At my club, the Seattle Juic Table Tennis Club.

How would you describe your playing style? Your strengths and weaknesses?

I play a quick, short, forceful attacking style. My strength is my ability to develop a game strategy. I miss the opportunity to play and train with high-caliber practice partners.

Photo by Gerry Chua ©2002

You are known for your spectacular backhand loop, which many players try to copy. Any advice on this?

Be relaxed, watch the ball, hit the ball in your comfort zone and lots of practice.

How long have you been a full-time professional player?

About 10 years.

How often do you train these days?

I try to keep in playing shape by running and rope jumping 3-4 times a week, and I try to practice as much as I can, and occasionally I used a table tennis robot.

What are your table tennis activities now? Playing, coaching, running tournaments or clubs?

A little bit of all of the above.

What are your major goals in table tennis?

I would like to have my own full-time table tennis club.

What player in table tennis do you most admire, and why?

I like Jorgen Persson because of his ability to be calm and maintain his concentration and focus when playing. He also has a great backhand.

What is your educational background?

By being a [former] member of the Chinese National Team, I have a sports education degree.

What are your interests outside of table tennis? Hobbies, etc.?

I enjoy different kinds of music, especially soft light popular and classical music.

Any advice for up-and-coming players?

Be determined. Never give up. Practice and practice.