On May 4, 2024, according to Beijing time, the much-anticipated table tennis WTT Saudi Grand Slam tournament officially kicked off at the iconic King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. As a major member of the four major tournament systems of table tennis in the world, the WTT Saudi Grand Slam is not only the pinnacle of the WTT series, but also carries a staggering $2 million total prize pool, setting a new record in table tennis history, and the winner will earn 2,000 valuable world ranking points in one fell swoop. This event covered the intense singles and doubles events, attracting the top masters of the world's major table tennis associations, and the Chinese table tennis team was also an elite to compete for this glorious battlefield. In the fierce competition for the top 32 and the top 16, the Chinese table tennis team achieved a proud record of winning all 6 games.
1. Chen Meng defeated Diaconu 3-0, with a score of 11-5, 12-10, 11-3 in three games
Chen Meng, the female singles, continued her dominance on the international stage, sweeping Diaconu 3-0 with an overwhelming 3-0 victory, 11-5, 12-10, 11-3 in three games. With his precise control and powerful attack, Chen Meng easily won the game, showing the demeanor of the national table tennis leader.
2. Wang Chuqin defeated Simon Goetz 3-0, 11-3, 13-11, 11-9 in three games
Wang Chuqin also defeated France's Simon Goetz 3-0 in three games, 11-3, 13-11, 11-9. Wang Chuqin showed a very high psychological quality and ability to handle key points in the game, especially in the stalemate in the second game, he was able to withstand the pressure and score key points, which fully proved his experience and technical and tactical level.
3. Lin Shidong defeated Moregard 3-1, 11-4/11-9/11-13/11-5 in four games]
Teenager Lin Shidong faced the challenge of Swedish rising star Moregard, and although he encountered some resistance, he finally won with an overall score of 3-1, 11-4, 11-9, 11-13, 11-5 in four games. This match reflected Lin Shidong's ability to adjust and perseverance in the face of adversity, especially after losing the third game, he quickly adjusted his strategy and won the fourth game with a big score to seal the victory.
4. Wang Manyu defeated Olawan 3-0, with a score of 11-4/11-5/11-6 in three games.
Another fierce player of the women's team, Wang Manyu, also did not give her opponent any chance, and defeated her opponent Olawan 3-0 in straight games, with the score of 11-4, 11-5, 11-6 in all three games. With his excellent serve, versatile ball path, and solid defense, Wang Manyu completely mastered the rhythm of the match.
5. Liang Jingkun defeated Harbesson 3-0, with a score of 11-5, 11-2, 11-6 in three games
Liang Jingkun also put in a good performance, defeating Austria's Harbesson 3-0, 11-5, 11-2, 11-6 in three games. Liang showed a powerful forehand attack and tight control in the match, leaving little room for his opponent to counterattack.
6. Lin Gaoyuan defeated Shulaibi 3-0, with a score of 11-4, 11-2, 11-5 in three games.
In the end, Lin Gaoyuan defeated Shulaibi with the same score of 3-0, 11-4, 11-2, 11-5 in three games. Lin Gaoyuan's fast offensive rhythm and precise landing control made it difficult for his opponent to parry and successfully advanced to the next round.
The 32-in-16 match will continue today. In terms of national table tennis, Ma Long, Fan Zhendong, Sun Yingsha, Qian Tianyi, Wang Yidi, and Chen Xingtong will appear on stage.