In what year did the manga "Ping Pong" begin serialization?

The manga "Ping Pong" began serialization in the year 1996. This sports-themed manga was created by Taiyo Matsumoto and was first published in the Monthly Comic Afternoon magazine. "Ping Pong" tells the story of two childhood friends, Smile and Peco, as they navigate the intense world of competitive table tennis, exploring themes of friendship, rivalry, and personal growth. With its visually distinctive art style and powerful storytelling, "Ping Pong" gained popularity and became a beloved series among manga enthusiasts.