Jeon Ji-hee, one of the most successful naturalized players to represent South Korea, has officially announced her retirement from competitive table tennis. She chose not to participate in the national championships held from December 17 to 24, 2024, as she prepares to return to her hometown in China.
At 32 years old, Jeon has been instrumental to the South Korean women's table tennis team, having won numerous accolades during her career, including Olympic and Asian Games medals. Her decision to retire follows her decision not to renew her contract with Mirae Asset Securities, effectively ending her career within South Korea.
Head coach Kim Taek-soo of Mirae Asset mentioned, "Two years ago, when we brought Jeon from POSCO Energy, she seriously contemplated retirement. After achieving bronze in the women's team event at the recent Paris Olympics, she expressed her intention to no longer continue her athletic career here.” This decision came after discussions with her team about her future.
Jeon Ji-hee has been ranked 17th by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), making her the second highest-ranked female player from South Korea, following Shin Yu-bin, who is ranked 10th worldwide. Despite being eligible for automatic selection for the national team next year due to her performance, Jeon has opted for retirement, paving the way for new talent on the roster.
During her career, Jeon achieved remarkable success and was highly regarded for her partnership with fellow player Shin Yu-bin. Their collaboration led to significant achievements, including winning gold at the 2023 Asian Games and reaching the finals at the World Championships last year, which was the first time for South Korean women’s doubles since 1987.
Reflecting on her career, Jeon Ji-hee stated, "I have decided to retire quietly after years of hard work and dedication." Many fans have expressed their gratitude for her contributions to the sport, associatively dubbing her "the backbone of South Korean women’s table tennis."
Jeon shared her experience of being raised as part of the Chinese youth team but after failing to secure a spot on the national team, she made the move to South Korea, obtaining citizenship and embracing her career there.
Now back to her roots, Jeon Ji-hee is preparing to spend time with family and reflect on her illustrious career.
Though her departure marks the end of her competitive days, both Jeon and her teammate Shin Yu-bin have left an indelible mark on the sport. Jeon’s impressive career serves as inspiration for future generations of athletes.
Jeon Ji-hee’s retirement signifies the conclusion of a significant chapter within Korean sports history as she leaves behind not just trophies and medals, but also memories cherished by fans and fellow athletes alike.