Ilija Lupulesku (affectionately known as 'Lupy' or 'Lupi') is a two-wing shakehand looper, who can also wear down opponents by playing a topspin retrieving game away from the table.
Career Highlights - courtesy of the USATT website
- Member, 2004 U.S. Olympic Team
- 2002, 2003 & 2005 U.S. Men's Singles Champion
- 2003-2005 U.S. Men's Doubles Champion
- 2003 U.S. Mixed Doubles Champion
- 1990 European Men's Doubles Champion, 3-time Finalist
- 1988 Olympic Men's Doubles Silver Medalis
- 1987 World Men's Doubles Finalist
- Two-time European Mixed Doubles Champion, 2-time Finalist
- Four-time Yugoslavian Men's Singles Champion; 10-time Men's Doubles and Mixed Doubles Champion
Tahl's Take
Lupi won a silver medal at the 1988 Olympics for Men's doubles. He also won a silver medal at the World Championships for Men's doubles losing 21-19 in the final game. Lupi's feel for the ball is beyond amazing. On his forehand side from off the table he can literally counter attack any ball. Lupi is always great to watch.