Wang Chuqin and Wang Manyu Begin WTT Finals Campaign with Hard Fought Wins in Hong Kong
China’s top table tennis stars Wang Chuqin and Wang Manyu opened their WTT Finals campaigns with determined victories on Wednesday, advancing to the quarterfinals in Hong Kong SAR. Both defending champions were tested early but showed resilience and experience as they pushed through challenging matches to keep their title hopes intact.
In men’s singles, world number one Wang Chuqin faced a surprisingly tough battle against Japan’s rising talent Sora Matsushima. The 18 year old came out strong, taking an early 3 to 1 lead with scores of 11 to 6, 11 to 9, 4 to 11 and 14 to 12. The pressure mounted as Matsushima played aggressively and disrupted Wang’s rhythm, raising the prospect of a major upset.
Wang, however, drew on his composure and championship experience to stage an impressive comeback. He tightened his play, took more initiative and gradually regained control. The shift paid off as he claimed the next three games 12 to 10, 11 to 4 and 11 to 9, sealing a 4 to 3 win. The victory keeps alive his chance to secure a fourth straight title at the WTT Finals. The 25 year old will next meet France’s Alexis Lebrun in the quarterfinals.
Speaking after the match, Wang admitted he struggled to find his form early on. He said he had to make adjustments on the spot and focus on staying more proactive. Winning the fifth game, he added, helped him rebuild confidence and push through the remainder of the match.
In women’s singles, Wang Manyu also secured a hard earned win, defeating Japan’s Miwa Harimoto in six games. The world number two opened strong with two convincing games, 11 to 6 and 11 to 8, but Harimoto responded sharply. After taking the third game 13 to 11, Harimoto continued to pressure Wang throughout the match. Although Wang regained her momentum with an 11 to 6 win in the fourth game, Harimoto once again fought back, capturing the fifth 11 to 9. Wang closed the match with a composed 11 to 7 finish in the sixth game, booking her place in the quarterfinals where she will meet Joo Cheonhui of the Republic of Korea.
Reflecting on the match, Wang said facing the same opponent again so soon can be challenging because the player who previously lost often enters with a stronger mindset and clearer strategy. She acknowledged losing focus briefly after an 8 to 0 lead in the third game but credited Harimoto for her improved performance and persistence.
In mixed doubles action, China’s Lin Shidong and Kuai Man delivered a dominant performance to open Group 1, defeating Hong Kong SAR’s Wong Chun Ting and Doo Hoi Kem in straight games 11 to 9, 11 to 4 and 11 to 4.
As competition intensifies, China’s top contenders have made a confident start, showcasing both skill and mental toughness as the WTT Finals continue in Hong Kong.
