Chinese table tennis star Wang Chuqin has once again made headlines—not for his incredible performances on the table, but for an impressive academic achievement. The 24-year-old has been provisionally accepted into Peking University, one of China’s most prestigious institutions, to pursue a master’s degree in Sports Science.
His name appeared at the top of the university’s provisional admission list for 2025, confirming that he successfully passed the evaluation process with an outstanding final score of 86. If there are no objections during the public review period, he will officially begin his studies in September 2025.
This marks yet another milestone in what has already been an extraordinary past year for Wang, both in sports and personal achievements.
A Remarkable Year of Achievements
Wang Chuqin has long been known for his dominance in international table tennis, but his success in 2024 and 2025 extends far beyond the sport.
July 2024: Graduated from Beijing Sport University
August 2024: Won two gold medals at the Paris Olympics, cementing his legacy as an Olympic champion
September 2024: Passed China’s civil service examination, securing a government position
April 2025: Accepted into Peking University for a master’s degree
To achieve so much in such a short period requires not only talent but also extreme discipline, focus, and time management—qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his success in table tennis as well.
A Special Admission Pathway for an Olympic Champion
Due to his status as an Olympic champion, Wang was exempt from the standard entrance exam for graduate studies at Peking University. Instead, he was admitted through a special application and evaluation process, which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
This type of admission is not uncommon for elite athletes, as universities often seek to integrate top-level sports professionals into academic programs. Peking University, known for fostering excellence across multiple disciplines, has a history of admitting exceptional athletes and providing them with opportunities to further their education and professional development.
According to university officials, Wang’s final evaluation score was 86, ranking him first among all applicants in his program. This not only highlights his academic potential but also underscores his ability to succeed in different fields.
Balancing Sports, Academics, and Career Growth
Wang’s decision to pursue higher education while maintaining his professional career in table tennis demonstrates his ambition to expand his knowledge beyond the sport. While many elite athletes focus solely on competition, he has chosen to take a more holistic approach, ensuring that he builds a solid foundation for life beyond his playing days.
His acceptance into Peking University has sparked widespread admiration from fans and the broader public. Many netizens have praised his ability to balance elite competition, academic success, and professional development, calling him a true role model for young athletes.
His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and students alike, proving that dedication and strategic planning can lead to success in multiple areas of life.
What’s Next for Wang Chuqin?
While Wang’s immediate focus will remain on his table tennis career, his acceptance into Peking University marks a significant step toward his long-term future. The two-year master's program in Sports Science will provide him with valuable knowledge that could be applied in various roles, whether in sports management, coaching, or even policymaking in the field of athletics.
As he prepares to balance his studies with his career as one of the world’s top table tennis players, it will be fascinating to see how he continues to excel in both arenas.