Chinese table tennis stars Wang Chuqin and Wang Manyu delivered thrilling performances at the WTT Finals in Hong Kong SAR this week, overcoming tough challenges to secure quarterfinal berths in their respective singles events.
World No. 1 Wang Chuqin staged a dramatic comeback against Japan's rising star Sora Matsushima on Wednesday, recovering from a 3-1 deficit to claim a 4-3 victory (6-11, 9-11, 11-4, 12-14, 12-10, 11-4, 11-9). The 25-year-old defending champion acknowledged post-match challenges: "I tried to adjust myself during the match. After winning the fifth game, I was more motivated to pursue the victory." He now prepares to face France's Alexis Lebrun in Thursday's quarterfinals.
In women's singles, World No. 2 Wang Manyu defeated Japan's Miwa Harimoto 4-2 (11-6, 11-8, 11-13, 11-6, 9-11, 11-7), setting up a quarterfinal clash with the Republic of Korea's Joo Cheonhui. Reflecting on her hard-fought win, Wang noted: "Her mindset changed completely after our last meeting. I fell short after an 8-0 lead in the third game, but maintained focus when it mattered."
The mixed doubles pair Lin Shidong and Kuai Man dominated their opening Group 1 match against Hong Kong SAR's Wong Chun Ting and Doo Hoi Kem with a straight-game victory (11-9, 11-4, 11-4). The tournament continues through Sunday at the Hong Kong Coliseum.
