Ma Lin

One of the major powers of men’s table tennis in the first decade of the 21st century, Ma Lin only lacks a world title in singles. He did become the first player ever to win Olympic gold in the singles (2008), doubles (2004) and team event (2008), and will likely remain so, with the doubles event being discontinued. Ma Lin can also claim 18 medals from World Championships, including golds in the mixed doubles (1999, 2003), doubles (2007) and team (2001, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2010). The singles title has eluded him, finishing runner-up three times, and being losing semi-finalist on two more occasions. He has been more successful in the World Cup, winning that event four times (2000, 2003-4, 2006). Additionally, he has claimed 9 medals from the Asian Games, and 8 from Asian Championships.