China's table tennis star Wang Chuqin made a commanding return to form at the WTT Champions Chongqing 2025 event on Friday, defeating France's Alexis Lebrun 3-0 in a high-octane match that showcased world-class rallies and tactical brilliance.
The 2024 World No. 1, now ranked second globally after a 47-week reign, delivered a masterclass in precision against Lebrun – fresh off his Singapore Smash 2025 semifinal breakthrough. The match opened with explosive exchanges, Wang clinching the first game 11-8 after a series of spectacular backhand winners.
Drama peaked in the second game when Wang's 9-5 lead nearly unraveled under Lebrun's fierce counterattacks. A strategic timeout called by coach Wang Hao at 10-10 proved pivotal, with Wang securing a crucial 13-11 edge through an audacious forehand strike. The final game saw the Chinese athlete methodically dismantle his opponent's defense, closing the match 11-6.
Wang next faces Sweden's Truls Moregard (World No. 7) in Saturday's quarterfinals, reigniting their rivalry from last year's Asian Championship semifinals. The Chongqing event continues to draw global attention as athletes compete for ranking points ahead of the 2026 World Team Championships.
