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Mega hype about Fan Zhendong: sold out Bundesliga duel in Bremen!
Fan Zhendong is playing for 1. FC Saarbrücken in the table tennis Bundesliga for the first time; his game against Werder Bremen is sold out.
Mega hype about Fan Zhendong: sold out Bundesliga duel in Bremen!
Table tennis fever is spreading! The celebrated Chinese playerFan Zhendonghas a month ago for the1. FC Saarbrückensigned in the table tennis Bundesliga and is already causing a sensation. His current balance sheet of3 wins and 2 defeatsshows that he has acclimatised, even if the first games were still challenging. Loud butenunbinnen.de is the upcoming Bundesliga game againstWerder BremenonOctober 5thalready sold out, which makes it more than clear how much the fans love his games.
After his participation was announced, ticket requests skyrocketed. Say and write550 ticketswere sold within a very short time, many of them to fans from China. Even the tickets that are in the Bundesliga30 euroscost, have proven highly sought after, while fans in China are up to300 euroshave to pay for similar events. The security precautions at the game in Bremen should also not be underestimated; be here700 spectatorsexpected, including sponsors and journalists, and no ticket remains unsold.
A star under pressure
Fan Zhendong, idolized like a pop star in his homeland, has said he wanted to escape the mass hysteria, even as many followers remain loyal to him. Security barriers at the entrance and support from volunteers who speak Mandarin and English will ensure that Chinese fans get along well. Global Times reports that Zhendong has raised concerns on social media about the sometimes harmful behavior of fans and stressed the need for the sport to remain pure. Despite his fame, he is unsettled by negative online comments and has temporarily withdrawn from interviews and autographs.
His first appearance for Saarbrücken was a complete success; impressive1,800 fansattended his home game. Merchandise linked to Zhendong is flourishing, helping the club secure funds for its one-year contract. Despite the unofficial psychological demands that result from the competitive sports culture, Zhendong feels comfortable in the Bundesliga and, with the support of the University of Tübingen even gain insights into sports psychology aspects that support athletes in elite competitions.
A sporting prodigy
Zhendong has had an impressive career - he is a three-time Olympic champion and eight-time world champion, known for having aGreat Grand Slamhas achieved. These successes place him as one of the best table tennis players of all time. In August 2024 he won the individual competition at theOlympic Games in Parisand has recently withdrawn from various tournaments, which only sparked more rumors and speculation.
On October 5th the pressure will increase on him during the game against Werder Bremen and the fans' anticipation is understandable. Every player needs a break - his retreat to the locker room after games is a clear sign that even the greatest need to take a break from their glory from time to time.