Wang Liqin, President of the Chinese Table Tennis Association, has praised the national team’s outstanding performance at the 2026 London World Team Table Tennis Championships, stating that the team fully achieved its pre-tournament objectives. Both the men’s and women’s teams defeated Japan in their respective finals, securing the men’s 12th consecutive title and the women’s seventh straight championship, with Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha named Best Male and Female Athletes.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Wang Liqin highlighted the challenges faced by both squads. “The women’s team and the young men’s team encountered many setbacks and difficulties along the way,” he said. “However, in the finals, they displayed their best competitive form and exceptional skills. Crucially, when facing adversity, they upheld the spirit of never giving up and fighting tenaciously, ultimately overcoming their opponents to claim the titles.”
Wang emphasized three key takeaways from the championships. First, the team had thoroughly prepared for potential difficulties. Both the men’s team, which faced early group-stage challenges, and the women’s team, which encountered obstacles in the final, successfully weathered the storms. Second, both teams managed to shed psychological pressure and compete boldly. “In the current competitive landscape of world table tennis, we must approach every opponent with an attacking mindset, staying fully focused on the match regardless of the score,” Wang explained. Third, the entire squad demonstrated remarkable unity and collaboration. “Every member, from the players on court to the sparring partners and support staff, fulfilled their roles with clear division of labor, ensuring optimal preparation and competition. This reflects the team’s strong cohesion.”
Wang also offered individual assessments, noting that every player gained valuable experience. “Sun Yingsha and Wang Chuqin stabilized the team’s morale and played decisive roles in turning the tide,” he remarked, praising their contributions to the victories. He acknowledged that Wang Manyu and Liang Jingkun encountered difficulties but delivered in crucial matches. “Manyu lost her first match in the final but remained resolute and won the deciding fifth match. Jingkun’s journey was bumpy, but his refusal to give up was inspiring, especially when he came back from 0-2 down against Tomokazu Harimoto to win the opening match, which was vital for the men’s team’s title.” Younger players like Kuai Man and Lin Shidong also gained valuable experience and identified areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining consistent performance under pressure.
Looking ahead, Wang stressed the importance of thorough reflection. “I hope the national table tennis team will conduct a comprehensive review—consolidating and enhancing our strengths while identifying and addressing weaknesses in training and competition. We aim to continue bringing glory to the nation in future international events, especially the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.”