Victor Liu (CA, USA)

14 year old Victor Liu of San Jose, California has played table tennis for more than half his life and it shows. 2015 has been a great year for Victor. He made his debut on the U.S. National Junior Team this year. He also faired exceptionally well on the international scene to win the Cadet Gold at the recent Canada Junior and Cadet Open. Victor is definitely a rising talent and we will continue to hear about his accomplishments over the coming years.

I had the opportunity to ask him a few questions. I hope you enjoy getting to know him!

Quick facts about Victor Liu:
Highest USATT rating 2551 
2015 U.S. National Junior & Cadet Boys Team Member
2014 U.S. National Cadet & Mini-Cadet Boys Team Member
Sponsored by Butterfly

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Victor Liu, 2015 U.S. National Junior & Cadet Boys Team Member
Photo: Glen Randmer

With Victor Liu at the 2015 North American Championships

1. When and how did you start playing table tennis? 
I started playing at my Chinese School with some friends when I was about 7 years old. I loved competing with my friends.

2. What equipment do you use?
Blade: Zhang Jike Super ZLC
Forehand rubber: Tenergy 05
Backhand rubber: Tenergy 64

3. How often do you play and train? 
I train 5-6 times a week for about 2-3 hours in every session.

4. Tell us about your most memorable match. 
My most memorable match was probably with Derek Nie at the 2011 U.S. Nationals. It was the first time that I won a national title (Under 10 Boys Champion).

5. What are your goals with regards to table tennis?
My short-term goal is to do well in every match that I play. My long-term goal is to represent the U.S. in the Olympics.

6. Who was the toughest opponent you have ever played?
It would be Hwang Minha (Korea). He's really tough with very few weaknesses, so it is really difficult to play against him.

7. Is there one moment in your career that brings a smile to your face? 
It would most definitely be the moment I beat Jeremy Hazin in the finals of the 2015 Canada Junior and Cadet Open. 

8. Who is your favorite international table tennis player? Why?
I like Fan Zhendong because in spite of being such a young player he is so strong.

9. Couple of rapid-fire questions:
Talent or hard work?  Hard work
Best chance to win - player with skills or player with confidence? Player with skill
21 point games or 11 point games? 11 point games
Poly ball or celluloid ball? Poly ball
More drills or more practice matches? More matches
More practice matches or more tournaments? More tournaments
To cho, or not to cho? Cho

11. What other interests do you have besides table tennis?
I like to play the guitar in my free time.

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