China Clinches 6th Consecutive Women’s Title at ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships

Busan, The Gulf Observer: In a thrilling showdown at the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals, China showcased its dominance in the sport by rallying past Japan 3-2 to secure an unprecedented sixth consecutive women’s title. The historic victory also marked China’s 23rd time lifting the coveted Corbillon Cup.

The encounter witnessed fierce competition as the teams clashed for the fifth straight head-to-head final, dating back to 2014. China’s formidable trio of Sun Yingsha, Chen Meng, and Wang Yidi played pivotal roles in securing another triumph.

The battle commenced with Sun Yingsha facing off against 15-year-old Miwa Harimoto. Sun, with a previous 3-0 head-to-head record, took control early, securing an 11-5 victory in the opening game. Despite Harimoto’s resilience in the second game, Sun claimed a two-game lead and eventually won the third game decisively at 11-4, putting the first point on the board for China.

Chen Meng encountered a spirited challenge from Hina Hayata. After a dominant 11-6 victory in the first game, Chen faced a resurgence from Hayata, who secured an 11-8 win in the second. Hayata continued her momentum, triumphing 11-9 in the third game. Despite a hard-fought battle, Hayata emerged victorious at 14-12 in the fourth game, leveling the overall score.

Miu Hirano further heightened the tension by defeating world No. 2 Wang Yidi in straight games, placing Japan on the verge of claiming the title.

With China’s hopes hanging by a thread, Sun Yingsha rose to the occasion in a remarkable encounter against Hayata. Sun secured a convincing 11-2, 11-7, 11-6 victory, revitalizing China’s chances of defending the title.

Chen Meng, determined to redeem the earlier setback, showcased resilience in her encounter with Miwa Harimoto. In a thrilling clash lasting over three and a half hours, Chen battled back from one game down to secure a 3-1 victory, clinching the championship for China.

The Busan Exhibition and Convention Center erupted in celebration as China emerged triumphant, with France and Hong Kong, China, sharing the bronze in the women’s event.

In the men’s team semifinals, China and France secured victories to advance to the final. China overcame a full-set thriller against hosts South Korea, while France notched a 3-1 victory over Chinese Taipei. Top-ranked Fan Zhendong and rising star Felix Lebrun played instrumental roles in securing their teams’ spots in the highly anticipated final.

The stage is set for an exhilarating finale as China seeks to continue its winning streak in the men’s event on Sunday.