The newest ITTF World Rankings have landed, and there’s plenty to get excited about as the sport’s emerging talents continue their meteoric rise. While the usual suspects maintain their grip at the top, several players have made significant jumps that are impossible to ignore.
Moved up 5 spots: Career best for Lin Shidong (CHN) | #7 Men
China’s Lin Shidong has been unstoppable this month, soaring five spots to claim a career-high ranking of No. 7. Fresh off his victory at the WTT Champions Macao, where he triumphed over top seed Wang Chuqin, Lin has proven he’s a force to be reckoned with. His path to the title was anything but easy, featuring a stunning victory over Tomokazu Harimoto in a grueling five-setter that tested every ounce of his resolve. Lin's dominance was on full display as he crushed Dang Qiu in the final, securing yet another major title. After also collecting multiple titles in WTT Contender events, Lin is sending a clear message to the table tennis world: the 19-year-old is coming for the very top.
Japan’s Surge in the Rankings
Japan's female players continue to impress, with several rising stars making notable gains. Leading the charge is Satsuki Odo, who has broken into the Top 20 for the first time in her career, jumping four spots to No. 17. Odo’s breakout season has been nothing short of remarkable. With only three singles losses across eight WTT events this year, she has been a consistent podium finisher, taking home titles at WTT Feeder events in Panagyurishte and Varazdin, among others.
Meanwhile, Miwa Harimoto, younger sister of Tomokazu, has edged up to a career-best No. 7 in the world. With her technical prowess and maturity beyond her years, Miwa is quickly establishing herself as one of the most formidable players on the international stage. Honoka Hashimoto is another name to watch, climbing five places to No. 30 as she inches closer to breaking into the Top 25.
Moved up 8 spots: Career best for Kao Cheng-Jui (TPE) | #23 Men
Taipei’s Kao Cheng-Jui is another player making waves, leaping an impressive eight places to land at No. 23. With a semifinal finish at the WTT Champions Macao and consistent performances throughout the year, Kao is quickly closing in on the Top 20. His tireless work ethic is paying off, and it’s clear he has his sights set even higher.
Other ranking shifts:
Moved up 2 spots: Dang Qiu (GER) | #11 Men
Moved up 5 spots: Simon Gauzy (FRA) | #29 Men
Moved up 5 spots: Honoka Hashimoto (JPN) | #30 Women