A very common question among table tennis players is: What is Ma Long’s equipment that he used to become the G.O.A.T of ping pong? His remarkable skills, strategic gameplay, and fierce determination have earned him the title of one of the greatest table tennis players of all time.
But what lies beneath his mastery of the game?
Here is all of Ma Long’s equipment:
In this article, we delve into the heart of Ma Long’s equipment – the blade and rubbers he relies on to deliver those powerful, precision shots. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the secrets behind Ma Long’s setup and understand how his equipment choices reflect his unique playing style.
Ma Long’s Playing Style is Agile, Precise And Offensive
Before we delve into the intricacies of Ma Long’s equipment, it’s essential to understand the player himself. Ma Long’s playing style is a symphony of offense, agility, and precision.
Known for his exceptional forehand and backhand techniques, he utilizes a blend of powerful smashes and strategic placements to dominate his opponents. His aggressive, fast-paced gameplay demands equipment that can keep up with his intensity.
Learn how to improve your own game with our tutorials here.
A Glimpse into History: Ma Long’s Success
Ma Long, born on October 20, 1988, has etched his name as an indomitable force in the world of table tennis. Hailing from China, he has secured his place in history with a remarkable collection of titles and accomplishments. Currently ranked number 3 in Men’s Singles by the ITTF, Ma Long’s prowess extends far beyond rankings.
He has triumphed as the reigning Olympic singles champion, claiming the gold medal in both 2016 and 2020. Renowned as the epitome of excellence in table tennis, he remains the first and only male player to achieve a career Double Grand Slam by winning Olympic golds in consecutive tournaments.
With a reign atop the world rankings lasting a total of 64 months, including an impressive 34 consecutive months from March 2015, Ma Long has set a new standard of dominance. He is a three-time World Championships champion in men’s singles, clinching titles in 2015, 2017, and 2019.
His remarkable achievements prompted the International Table Tennis Federation to affectionately dub him “The Dictator” and “The Dragon,” a nod to his zodiac sign. Moreover, his contributions to the sport extend to his role as the captain of the Chinese national table tennis men’s team since 2014.
What is Ma Long’s Net Worth?
Based on what I found on the internet, his net worth is estimated to be about $20 million. He is the wealthiest table tennis player in the world.
Ma Long’s Physical Training
Just like any other top ranking table tennis player, Ma Long has a vigorous training schedule. He lifts weights along with practicing strokes. You can see in the video below that he does lots of core and leg exercises.
Ma Long’s Equipment – Symphony of DHS Blade and Rubbers
Blade – HURRICANE LONG 5 – Buy Now

At the core of Ma Long’s equipment setup lies the Hurricane Long 5 blade. You can see on megaspin.com it’s very popular with 44 reviews currently and has high customer ratings.
This blade is more than just a piece of wood – it’s a precision instrument crafted to match Ma Long’s aggressive playing style.
With a composition that blends power and control, the Hurricane Long 5 empowers Ma Long to execute lightning-fast smashes while maintaining the finesse required for accurate placements. Its dynamic design perfectly complements his dynamic approach to the game.
Rubber (Forehand) – Hurricane 3 National Rubber – Buy Now

Ma Long’s forehand is nothing short of formidable, and the Hurricane III National rubber plays a pivotal role in this dominance.
This rubber’s unique characteristics – including its sponge hardness, grip, and spin generation – contribute to Ma Long’s ability to unleash explosive forehand shots that leave opponents struggling to keep up. The Hurricane III National Blue Sponge rubber is not just a tool; it’s an extension of Ma Long’s skill set.
Rubber (Backhand) – Neo Hurricane 3 Rubber – Buy Now

While the forehand steals the spotlight, Ma Long’s backhand is equally noteworthy. The NEO HURRICANE 3 rubber is his weapon of choice for this side of his game.
With its spin-oriented design and excellent control, the rubber complements Ma Long’s versatile backhand shots. Whether it’s quick counters or aggressive returns, the Neo Hurricane 3 rubber aids Ma Long in maintaining his swift and agile playing style.
What Table Tennis Shoes did Ma Long Use?
Shoes: Mizuno Wave Drive 9 – Buy Here

There are also exclusive Ma Long shoes made by Li-Ning called Fight The Dragon Table Tennis Shoes. However before Ma Long was sponsored by Li-Ning, he used Mizuno shoes.
The Wave Drive 9s are one of the models that he used that are still made and can be easily bought. The best store I could find to get these shoes in the US was ebay. There are many sellers that have the newest model in all sizes at a decent price with free shipping.
Read about our top table tennis shoe recommendations here.
Should You Use Ma Long’s Racket? The Reality Check
Replicating Ma Long’s equipment setup might seem like a tempting endeavor for aspiring table tennis players. After all, who wouldn’t want to wield the same tools that propelled a legend to greatness?
However, before you rush to adopt Ma Long’s racket, it’s crucial to take a step back and evaluate whether it’s the right choice for you.
Take note that Ma Long’s racket is not for beginners. This will be much too fast of a set up for a beginner and would be a massive waste of money.
Weighing Pros and Cons
While Ma Long’s racket setup undoubtedly suits his playing style, it’s essential to consider whether it aligns with your strengths and preferences.
His aggressive, offensive approach demands exceptional skill and control. While the Hurricane Long 5 blade and associated rubbers offer incredible power and spin, they also require a level of finesse and technique that might not be suitable for everyone.
Before making the switch, carefully assess whether the pros – explosive power and precision – outweigh the cons – the learning curve and potential adjustment period.
Tailoring Ping Pong Equipment to Individual Style
Every player has a unique playing style, and finding the right equipment is about more than simply imitating a legend. Consider your strengths, weaknesses, and preferred strategies on the table. Ma Long’s setup serves his style impeccably, but you might excel with a different combination of blade and rubbers that caters to your approach.
Ultimately, equipment should enhance your skills and complement your style rather than restrict your gameplay.
Remember, Skill Trumps Equipment
It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of using the same equipment as a table tennis icon, but it’s crucial to remember that Ma Long’s success isn’t solely due to his racket and rubbers. His mastery of the game, countless hours of practice, and unparalleled dedication contribute significantly to his achievements.
Even if you were to wield the same racket, it’s your skill, determination, and understanding of the game that will make the difference on the table.
Want more detailed info on choosing a racket? Check out our guide on how to buy the perfect blade + rubber.
Is Ma Long’s Equipment Unique or Similar to Other Players?
In the realm of table tennis equipment, the question of uniqueness versus similarity often arises, particularly when examining champions like Ma Long. His selection of the Hurricane Long 5 blade and distinct rubbers showcases a blend tailored to his dynamic style.
This personalized combination grants him the precision and dominance that define his success on the table.
However, while Ma Long’s setup shines uniquely, a common trend emerges among top-tier players, prioritizing power and spin with a focus on control.
Amid these parallels, individualization remains key, demonstrating that while certain players may gravitate towards setups akin to Ma Long’s, diverse choices underscore the tailored nature of equipment in the world of table tennis.
How Ma Long’s Technique Shapes His Equipment?
Ma Long’s aggressive play style demands gear that mirrors his rapid, attacking approach. He excels at fast footwork, explosive shots, and relentless exchanges.
His gear must deliver power, spin, and precision. The Hurricane Long 5 blade offers speed and control, enabling accurate yet forceful shots.
Rubbers and Blade Synergy
The Hurricane III National Rubber and Neo Hurricane 3 rubbers complement Ma Long’s aggressive tactics. These rubbers provide grip for dynamic forehand loops and precise backhand counterattacks.
Ma Long’s equipment blend hones his strengths and minimizes vulnerabilities. The combination of the Hurricane Long 5 blade and specific rubbers underscores the seamless connection between his technique and gear, amplifying his mastery of the game.
Get Inspired and Find Your Unique Perfect Racket Combo
In the world of table tennis, greatness is forged through a combination of skill, dedication, and the perfect equipment. Ma Long’s journey to becoming one of the sport’s greatest legends is a testament to this harmony between technique and gear.
His choice of the Hurricane Long 5 blade and the Hurricane 3 rubber and Neo Hurricane 3 rubbers is not just a matter of preference; it’s a strategic decision that empowers his aggressive, fast-paced style.
While emulating Ma Long’s exact setup may not be suitable for every player, understanding the rationale behind his choices can inspire us to make informed decisions about our own equipment.
Just as Ma Long’s equipment is a symphony of mastery, your gear should be a reflection of your distinct style, guiding you toward your own journey of excellence on the table.
Here’s a link to Ma Long’s bio on the Olympic’s website.
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