International Table Tennis: Michael Guo Competes at Pan Am Games

Michael Guo and his three Team USA teammates at the 2026 FISU America Games.

When Michael Guo steps up to the table, he brings the energy of both the University of Texas Table Tennis Club (UTTTC) and the Austin Table Tennis Club (ATTC) with him. Recently, Michael took that local momentum to the international stage representing Team USA at the FISU Pan American University Games.

FISU Pan American University Games Logo

"There are 15 different sports with over 18 countries, and over 2,000 participants playing in this tournament," Michael Guo explained. "This tournament is meant for University students within the Pan American area."

Earning a spot on this stage was a major milestone. Michael was selected by the NCTTA and USATT based on a combination of his world ranking points, USATT rating, and NCTTA performance

Making the most of his opportunity, Michael delivered an exceptional performance on the international stage, bringing home impressive Medals for Team USA:

• 🥇 Men's Doubles: Gold Medalist (1st Place)

• 🥈 Team Event: Silver Medalist (2nd Place)

• Quarterfinalist: Men's Singles (competing against top collegiate players from across the Americas)

Cool People and Different Styles

While testing his skills against elite international competitors was an incredible challenge, the personal connections and technical insights proved even more rewarding.

"The highlight was most definitely meeting all the people there," he shared. "I met so many talented and cool people from all over the world who were also very talented at whatever sport they came to represent their country for. It was also really an eye-opener to see so many good table tennis players and their different styles."

That eye-opening experience was especially clear when watching tactical differences on the court. In the United States, players are typically trained to develop two-wing attacks with balanced forehand and backhand options. However, Michael observed a stark contrast among South and Latin American competitors.

"I realized how different South America and Latin American countries play table tennis compared to the way we learn it in the states," he said. "For example, in America, we are taught that we can open with forehand or backhand. However, watching many South and Latin American players have no backhand opening or backhand topspin rallies; it is all forehand. So, it is pretty crazy seeing how they are all around the 2500 level without any backhand openings or backhand rallies in-game."

Let the Games Begin!

Now, Michael is bringing those global insights back home to Austin as a new season begins.

"I'm looking forward to practicing more with the UT team and ATTC members, which will boost our chances even more to reach our goal of getting top 3 at NCTTA Nationals!" the team's co-captain said. "Besides that, I also just want to have fun and meet the new batch of table tennis players from either ATTC or on the UT team. This past year was really enjoyable with our team and ATTC community, and I hope the Austin table tennis community can continue to have good vibes and have fun!"

Michael journey at the Pan Am Games is a victory not just for Team USA, but for the entire Texas table tennis community. With fresh global experience and an unwavering passion for the sport, he is perfectly positioned to help lead the UT team to new heights this season. Congratulations on an incredible milestone, Michael Guo—we can't wait to see what you accomplish next!