He says the drama marks his first time playing a professional athlete, and perhaps also the most "exhausting" of all his screen work so far.

Recalling that the show set a record for reshoots in his acting career, Xu Weizhou says he had to pay attention to details, such as eye contact and footwork, while ensuring an authentic standard of play.

"Table tennis is our national sport. Most of us have played it growing up, but I believe this drama will help youngsters understand the spirit of the sport more deeply," he says.

Contact the writer at xufan@chinadaily.com.cn