Starting at 14 years old
Discussion
Hosam Shaban Asked 8 years ago
HI coach
I'm Hossam from Egypt
My ask is : Can I start play table tennis from 14 years and long till I can be a professional ? And how do I know if I am professional or not?
I will be happy if you answer me
Thank you anyway
Alois Rosario Answered 8 years ago
Hi Hossam,
Starting at 14 is better than starting at 15 so get started now and see where you can get to.
It is about putting in as much effort as you can and then seeing how much you can improve your skills.
I guess the definition of professional is that someone is paying you to play... so that would be a good outcome if you can make it happen in the future.
Thoughts on this question
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Nagaraj Hegde Posted 8 years ago
I'd definitely say that your chances are low, but it is worth giving a try. Fan Zhendong is just 5 years elder to you, and is the world no. 3. That is really inspirational.
Nagaraj Hegde Posted 8 years ago
he's world no.2 *, sorry.
Alois Rosario from PingSkills Posted 8 years ago
I think if you are trying to become World Champion it is difficult but there are several levels of professional. I think it is possible to get to a high level of play when you start at 14. It will still take a long time.
Josef Novy Posted 8 years ago
Hi Hosam,
"And how do I know if I am professional ?"
it is simple :-)
You are a professional, when you are getting money for playing (either prize money or money from a club) and it is enough to make a living.
"Ok, how do I know, I am good enough to be a professional ?"
When you get on the top of the national level then someone will offer you a job. I guess several (or several tens?) people in Egypt can make their living by playing table tennis.