Fukuoka, Japan — Chinese table tennis sensations Wang Chuqin and Chen Xingtong continued their impressive run at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Finals, securing victories that propelled them into the quarterfinals.
Wang Chuqin Advances After Defeating Franziska
Top seed Wang Chuqin showcased his dominance in the men’s singles round of 16 by overcoming Germany’s Patrick Franziska. In a rematch of their encounter at the WTT Saudi Arabia Grand Smash, Wang maintained control to win 3-1 with scores of 11-8, 12-10, 11-13, 11-6.
“After the Olympics, my mental and physical states weren’t at their best,” Wang confessed. “I’m working to regain my form step by step through each tournament.”
Wang is set to face Swedish Olympic silver medalist Truls Moregard in the quarterfinals, who secured his spot after a tough five-game battle against compatriot Anton Kallberg.
Lin Shidong’s Solid Performance
Meanwhile, China’s Lin Shidong delivered a stellar performance, defeating France’s Alexis Lebrun 3-1 (8-11, 11-7, 11-8, 11-4) in a thrilling offensive matchup.
“Winning 3-1 wasn’t easy,” Lin reflected. “I prepared thoroughly, knowing Alexis has been in great form recently. I played with the mindset to give it my all.”
Chen Xingtong Triumphs in All-Chinese Clash
In the women’s singles, reigning champion Sun Yingsha faced teammate Chen Xingtong in an intense match. Sun took the first game confidently, but Chen fought back to win the next two. The fourth game saw Chen rally from behind to level at 9-9, but Sun held on to force a deciding fifth game.
The final game was neck-and-neck until 5-5, when Chen’s tactical play helped her pull ahead, ultimately securing an 11-8 victory and winning the match 3-2.
“We know each other very well as teammates,” Chen said. “Today, I focused on keeping a steady mindset.”
Looking ahead to her quarterfinal match against Japan’s Miu Hirano, Chen commented, “There’s pressure since we’re the only pair left, but focusing on the process will help us deliver better results.”
Wang Manyu Overcomes Shin Yu-bin
World No. 2 Wang Manyu defeated South Korea’s Shin Yu-bin 3-1 (11-3, 11-9, 7-11, 11-8) in their first-ever meeting. Wang acknowledged the challenge, saying, “Her performance was excellent in terms of shot quality and accuracy, which created many challenges for me.”
Wang will face teammate Qian Tianyi in the quarterfinals as the competition intensifies.
The excitement continues as these top athletes battle for the championship at the WTT Finals in Fukuoka.
Reference(s):
Chinese favorites Wang Chuqin, Chen Xingtong progress at WTT Finals
cgtn.com
