In a display of resilience and sporting excellence, China has advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in London, delivering a commanding 3-0 sweep over the Republic of Korea (ROK).
The victory served as a decisive response to a surprising group-stage encounter where the ROK had previously claimed a 3-1 win. Determined to erase the memory of that setback, the defending champions entered the quarterfinals with a focused intensity that left no room for error.
World No. 1 Wang Chuqin set the momentum for the tie in a thrilling opening encounter against Oh Jun-sung. The match was a tactical battle, with Wang taking an early lead in the first two games (11-9, 11-1). Despite a spirited fightback from Oh, who claimed the next two games 11-8 and 11-7, Wang maintained his composure to clinch the decider 11-7, securing a vital lead for his team.
The momentum continued as Lin Shidong took to the table. Showing a sharper edge than in previous group matches, Lin efficiently dispatched Jang Woo-jin in straight games, winning 11-3, 13-11, and 11-8.
Closing the tie was Liang Jingkun, who produced one of his most impressive performances of the tournament. Liang demonstrated clinical precision to defeat An Jae-hyun 11-7, 11-5, and 15-13, finalizing the 3-0 sweep for the Chinese side.
With this victory, China solidifies its position as the team to beat in London. They now await the winner of the clash between France and Brazil to determine their opponent in the semifinals.
Reference(s):
Table tennis: China exacts revenge with 3-0 sweep of ROK in London
cgtn.com
