Liu made her international debut in 2004, representing China. Her right-handed playing style and dedication to the sport have been evident since her early years. She has been coached by Ma Lin and Li Sun at the national level.

Challenges and Injuries

Liu's career has not been without its challenges. She withdrew from the women's team event at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to an elbow injury. This injury had required surgery in June 2020. In 2018, she withdrew from the China Open due to a lower back injury.

In 2014, Liu injured her right knee during training ahead of the Asian Games in Incheon. A shoulder injury forced her to retire during the singles final of the 2013 China Open in Suzhou. Despite these setbacks, Liu's resilience has been a testament to her motto: "No pain, no gain."

Awards and Honours

Liu's achievements have been recognised multiple times. She was named Female Star of the Year at the ITTF Star Awards in 2013, 2015, and 2019. In 2015, she was honoured as an Elite Athlete of International Class by the General Administration of Sport of China. Additionally, she was named MVP of the Chinese Super League in 2013.

Influences and Personal Life

Liu idolises Chinese table tennis player Kong Linghui. Her mother, a former professional table tennis player, has also been a significant influence on her career. Liu pursued higher education in Business Administration at South China University of Technology in Guangzhou.

Other Activities and Suspension

In 2022, Liu and Indian player Sharath Achanta were elected as joint chairs of the ITTF Athletes' Commission. However, her career faced a setback in September 2016 when she received an international suspension for a late withdrawal from the Women's World Cup in Philadelphia. The suspension was lifted in January 2017.

Liu continues to reside in Beijing and speaks Mandarin fluently. Known by her nickname "Sunny," she remains a prominent figure in table tennis, balancing her athletic career with her role on the ITTF Athletes' Commission.