China's Zhao Shang clinched a decisive victory in women's table tennis at the 2025 FISU Summer World University Games in Essen, Germany, defeating Huang Yu-jie of Chinese Taipei in a thrilling four-game final on Thursday. The match showcased Zhao's tactical precision under pressure, securing her first gold medal of the competition.
Zhao dominated early with a five-point streak in the opening game, setting the tone for her 11-8, 11-9, 13-11, 11-5 triumph. Huang fought valiantly, particularly in a nail-biting third game where the score tied at 11-11 before Zhao's closing rally sealed her unassailable lead. The victory underscores China's continued dominance in international table tennis while highlighting emerging talent from across the Taiwan Strait.
The World University Games, often seen as a proving ground for future Olympic champions, drew athletes from over 150 countries and regions. This win follows another gold medal for China earlier in the day, though details of the second victory remain undisclosed at press time.
