Table tennis legend Ma Long is happy to be back in London – a city he says is a lucky place for him.

The 19-time world champion won Olympic Games Men’s Team gold at London 2012 and the ITTF Team World Cup at the Copper Box in 2018 – and he also referenced a landmark performance in another English city.

Speaking after watching Team China defeat Korea Republic 3-0 to move into the semi-finals at OVO Arena Wembley, the man rated by many as the GOAT (Greatest Of All Time) said: “I’m very happy to be back in London.

“I think it is a lucky place for me, the Olympics and World Cup and also Liverpool, my first World Cup singles champion.”

As the sport celebrates the centenary of the World Championships back in the city where it all began in 1926, Ma Long also reflected on his place in that story.

“I’m so proud of table tennis going to 100 years and I’m also proud to make a contribution for these 100 years – many historical players have also made great efforts.

“I also hope that younger players are inspired to join our sport.”