The 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships in London have delivered a study in contrasts for the powerhouse Chinese squad, as the women's team continues its reign of dominance while the men's team faces an uphill battle heading into the knockout phase.
Women's Team: A Flawless Campaign
The Chinese women's team concluded the group stage this Sunday with an impeccable record, punctuated by a commanding 3-0 sweep over the Republic of Korea. The victory was absolute, with the Chinese athletes not dropping a single game throughout the match.
World No. 1 Sun Yingsha opened the proceedings with a clinical performance, defeating Kim Na-yeong 11-8, 11-4, 11-5. The momentum continued with Wang Yidi, who comfortably overcame Park Ga-hyeon 11-5, 11-6, 11-4. Kuai Man finalized the sweep by defeating Yoo Si-woo 11-6, 11-9, 11-3.
By finishing at the top of Group 1, the Chinese women have established themselves as the team to beat as they prepare for a knockout phase opener against Poland.
Men's Team: A Dramatic Struggle
While the women enjoyed a smooth ride, the Chinese men's team experienced a rollercoaster group stage, culminating in a nail-biting 3-2 loss to Sweden. This marks the second defeat for the men's side in the group stage, leaving them with a record of one win and two losses.
The match was characterized by high drama and resilience. World No. 1 Wang Chuqin demonstrated immense fortitude, dominating Anton Kallberg 11-8, 11-5, 11-6 despite battling through a bleeding hand. Wang later secured another point for China with a solid win over Elias Ranefur (12-10, 11-6, 11-4).
However, the team struggled in the remaining bouts. Debutant Lin Shidong suffered a heartbreaking loss to Ranefur, squandering a 9-7 lead in the deciding game to lose 11-9. In another tense encounter, Liang Jingkun reached a match point of 10-9 in the final game against Olympic silver medalist Truls Moregard, but ultimately fell 12-10.
The tie reached its conclusion in a grueling deciding match where Kallberg outlasted Lin in a five-game thriller (12-10, 10-12, 11-8, 11-8), sealing the victory for Sweden.
Despite the group stage setbacks, the Chinese men's team now shifts their focus to the knockout phase, where they are scheduled to face Australia.
Reference(s):
Table Tennis: China tops ROK to finish unbeaten in women's group stage
cgtn.com
