Its penalties for non-participation are designed to support the structure of the WTT calendar, ensuring that fans, organizers, event partners and broadcast partners can rely on the participation of the world's top players, WTT explained in the statement.

Fan, addressing the issue on Weibo, said he was never officially informed of the withdrawal fines, possibly due to WTT's previously incomplete calendar. After receiving notice of stricter enforcement for 2025, he decided to withdraw.

Liu called for a re-evaluation of WTT regulations, which he said risk placing undue strain on players. Rules governing participation, zero-point penalties and fines, he suggested, merit further discussion.

"I propose that the WTT consider granting 'participation exemptions' for veteran and decorated players, while establishing a 'prize pool' to reward young athletes who actively compete," Liu said. "Positive incentives can better encourage athletes to compete. Players are the most valuable assets in any sport, and should be treated with care."

Liu underscored the association's ongoing efforts to work with international bodies, including the ITTF and WTT, to push for fairer rules while still protecting the rights of athletes.

Looking to the future, Liu pledged unwavering support for Ma, Fan and Chen, saying: "If they choose to return to international competition, the association will provide every resource necessary to support them."

"Given their remarkable accomplishments and contributions," Liu added. "I am confident they could rejoin the Chinese team as wild-card entries if they so wish."

liyingxue@chinadaily.com.cn