SINGAPORE - The Singapore Table Tennis Association (STTA) announced on Tuesday that 2013 SEA Games gold medallist Zhan Jian will retire from the national team due to a recurring elbow injury.
The 33-year-old decided to hang up his bat after doctors at the Singapore Sports Institute and Changi General Hospital said that prolonged rest would aid in recovery. His final day of service will be on Aug 31.
The Hubei native was part of the China national team from 1997 to 2007, and arrived in Singapore in 2010. Highlights of his Singapore career include winning the men's singles and team titles at last year's Commonwealth Games and at the 2013 SEA Games.
At the 2012 London Olympics, he was part of the men's team that helped Singapore achieved a top-eight finish at the for the first time. He achieved a career-high world ranking of No. 23 in December 2012.
Said Zhan: "It has been a great sporting journey and I would like to thank Singapore for giving me so many opportunities. Also, special thanks to my fellow Singaporeans, team-mates, coaches and fans whom have supported me throughout these years."
STTA president and Sembawang GRC MP Ellen Lee said: "The STTA would like to take this opportunity to thank Zhan Jian for his dedication and commitment to excellence in table tennis that have brought about much glory to Singapore. He has shown great dedication and passion for his sport and is a true inspiration for all Singaporeans."
