China’s top-ranked table tennis players Sun Yingsha and Wang Manyu have advanced to the women’s singles final at the WTT Champions Incheon, ensuring that the prestigious title will remain with China.
Sun Yingsha, the world No. 1, delivered a commanding performance against compatriot Wang Yidi, securing a straight-sets victory with scores of 11-9, 11-9, 12-10, and 11-7. “I played consistently throughout the match and managed the pace and placement well,” Sun remarked after her win. “I will give it my all in the final and showcase my best.”
Meanwhile, Wang Manyu, the second seed, overcame fourth seed Chen Meng with a 4-2 victory (11-5, 13-15, 7-11, 11-4, 11-7, 11-3) in a tightly contested semifinal. The all-Chinese final highlights the nation’s dominance in women’s table tennis on the international stage.
In earlier quarterfinal action, Sun edged Japan’s Hina Hayata 3-2, while Wang dispatched Austria’s Sofia Polcanova in straight sets, advancing both to the semifinals with momentum.
On the men’s side, Liang Jingkun earned a place in the final after a thrilling seven-game battle against Olympic champion Ma Long, winning 4-3 (11-5, 11-8, 11-13, 5-11, 8-11, 11-6, 11-7). “After winning the first two games, I became a bit complacent and lost focus,” Liang admitted. “I had to adjust my mindset and fight for each point to clinch the victory.”
Liang will face Brazil’s Hugo Calderano in the men’s final. Calderano produced a stunning upset over China’s Fan Zhendong, defeating the top seed 4-2 (11-6, 11-8, 11-9, 6-11, 8-11, 11-5). “Starting 3-0 was crucial,” Calderano said. “Against a player like Fan, you have to maintain your level and stay cool. I’m excited for the final.”
The upcoming finals promise thrilling encounters, with China’s dominance in the women’s game and international competition heating up on the men’s side.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
