 and Sun Yingsha (CHN) continued their dominance in the Mixed Doubles category by securing their fourth consecutive WTT Grand Smash title together. The duo overpowered Wong Chun Ting (HKG) and Doo Hoi Kem (HKG) with a resounding 3-0 victory (11-6, 11-6, 11-6), maintaining their undefeated streak at this event tier.){kind=link}
Day 6 at Saudi Smash was one for the history books as the first champions of the tournament were crowned in a dazzling display of skill and teamwork. Wang Chuqin (CHN) and Sun Yingsha (CHN) continued their dominance in the Mixed Doubles category by securing their fourth consecutive WTT Grand Smash title together. The duo overpowered Wong Chun Ting (HKG) and Doo Hoi Kem (HKG) with a resounding 3-0 victory (11-6, 11-6, 11-6), maintaining their undefeated streak at this event tier.
The spotlight also shone on the epic showdown between Wang Yidi (CHN) and Mima Ito (JPN) in the Women’s Singles, which was the only match of the day to stretch to the full distance. After a gruelling battle that lasted just over an hour, Wang Yidi emerged victorious, winning 4-3 (11-5, 11-8, 7-11, 12-10, 9-11, 6-11, 11-8) in a match that showcased resilience and sheer determination from both athletes.
Video Highlights
Highlights from Day 6 (09 May 2024) Part 1:
https://media.archive.worldtabletennis.com/record/~d7b6566d52
Highlights from Day 6 (09 May 2024) Part 2:
https://media.archive.worldtabletennis.com/record/~0936489e8b
Day 7 Highlights at Saudi Smash: Anticipation Peaks with Finals and Semifinals
Today at Saudi Smash, the excitement hits a peak with six matches scheduled, featuring both the Men’s and Women’s Doubles finals and the nail-biting semifinals of the singles sub-events. Jang Woojin (KOR) remains the standout as the only non-seeded player left in the singles draws, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the day’s competitions.
In the Women’s Singles semifinal at 17:00, the spotlight shines on Chen Meng (CHN) and Hina Hayata (JPN). Hayata, who recently snapped a seven-match losing streak against Chen, will be looking to confirm her rising momentum is here to stay. Their encounter promises high tension and fierce competition as both aim to secure their spots in the final.
Following closely at 17:45, the Women’s Singles sees another intense matchup between Sun Yingsha and Wang Yidi, both from China. This game is a rematch of last year’s WTT Finals Women Nagoya, which Sun won. With both players showcasing exceptional form this season, this match is expected to be a strategic masterpiece.
The Men’s Singles semifinal at 18:30 will feature Wang Chuqin (CHN) facing off against Lin Shidong (CHN). Wang, coming off his first WTT Grand Smash singles title, tests his prowess against the young phenom Lin, who has made a remarkable run to his first semifinal at this level.
Wrapping up the day at 19:15, Jang Woojin (KOR) takes on Patrick Franziska (GER) in another Men’s Singles semifinal. This match is billed as a battle for the top 10, with both players looking to capitalise on their previous victories to climb the rankings. Jang’s record-breaking run and Franziska’s upset over higher-ranked players set the stage for a dramatic clash.
Credit: WTT Press