Fukuoka, Japan — China’s top table tennis stars Wang Chuqin and Wang Manyu have advanced to the finals of the World Table Tennis (WTT) Finals, setting the stage for thrilling title showdowns.
Wang Chuqin Powers into Men’s Singles Final
World No. 1 Wang Chuqin showcased his dominance by defeating Slovenia’s Darko Jorgic 4-1 in the men’s singles semifinals on Saturday. Despite trailing 8-5 in the fifth game, Wang displayed remarkable composure, rallying with a six-point streak to clinch the match.
“I stayed calm even when I was behind,” Wang said after the match. “My comeback shifted the momentum, and I focused on giving my best performance.”
Wang is now poised to compete for the men’s singles title, embodying his philosophy: “I treat every match as if it’s my last. Everyone wants the title, but for me, it’s about staying calm and giving it my all.”
Lin Shidong’s Heartbreaking Defeat to Harimoto
In an intense semifinal clash, China’s rising star Lin Shidong faced Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto. The teenager started strong, taking a 2-0 lead with scores of 11-6 and 11-3, capitalizing on Harimoto’s inconsistent serves.
Harimoto adjusted his strategy, utilizing more forehand plays and varied shot placements to level the match. The battle intensified, leading to a decisive seventh game. Tied at 9-9, Lin earned a match point at 10-9 but couldn’t seal the victory. Harimoto surged ahead, winning 12-10 and securing a 4-3 win.
“Trailing 2-0, I tried to rely more on forehand shots and adjusted my tactics,” Harimoto reflected. “This was probably the most intense game I’ve ever played; I feel like I’ve used up all my mental and physical energy.”
All-Chinese Women’s Singles Final Between Wang Manyu and Chen Xingtong
The women’s singles semifinals saw No. 2 seed Wang Manyu overcome Romania’s Bernadette Szocs in a dramatic seven-game thriller. Wang dominated early, leading 3-0, but Szocs mounted an impressive comeback to level the match. In the final game, Wang regained her focus to secure a 4-3 victory.
“Leading 3-0 and 9-6 in the fourth game, yet it still went to the seventh shows I had some issues,” Wang admitted. “But managing to win in such a dramatic situation is something I can be proud of.”
Meanwhile, Chen Xingtong defeated compatriot Wang Yidi in straight games, each ending 11-9. The victories set up an all-Chinese final between Wang Manyu and Chen Xingtong, promising an exciting showdown.
Looking Ahead
As the WTT Finals reach their climax, fans eagerly anticipate the performances of China’s elite players. With Wang Chuqin aiming for men’s singles glory and the women’s title guaranteed for China, the stage is set for unforgettable matches.
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China's Wang Chuqin to compete for WTT Finals men's singles title
cgtn.com
