An incredible week in Fukuoka ends with Wang Manyu reigning as queen in a seven-game thriller and Wang Chuqin securing his third straight WTT Finals crown.
WTT Finals Fukuoka 2024 has brought the curtain down on an exhilarating season of world-class table tennis. With thousands of fans filling the Infinity ∞ Arena in Fukuoka, the energy and excitement have been off the charts. From shocking upsets to career-defining performances, this week has showcased the very best of the sport.
Today, two extraordinary champions, Wang Manyu and Wang Chuqin, rose to the occasion to etch their names into WTT history, delivering masterful performances in the Women’s and Men’s Singles finals.
Wang Manyu Outlasts Chen Xingtong in a Final for the Ages
The Women’s Singles final was a nail-biter, as Wang Manyu (CHN) edged compatriot Chen Xingtong (CHN) in an epic 4-3 battle (13-11, 9-11, 4-11, 11-5, 5-11, 11-8, 11-5).
With both players competing in their first WTT Finals title match, the stakes were sky-high. Wang struck first in a marathon opening game, narrowly taking it 13-11. Chen responded with relentless aggression, claiming the next two games. But just when it seemed momentum was slipping away, Wang rediscovered her rhythm, unleashing blistering raw speed to dominate the fourth game.
In the decider, Wang’s mental fortitude and tactical adaptability shone through. With Chen throwing everything she had into the rallies, Wang absorbed the pressure and turned the tide with calculated aggression. As the final ball dropped, Wang roared in triumph, clinching her third WTT Series singles title of the season and solidifying her status as one of the game’s brightest stars.
Wang Manyu’s victory marks the continuation of an incredible season, following her title wins at Singapore Smash 2024 and WTT Champions Frankfurt 2024.
“I’m really excited to have won my first WTT Finals singles title, which is a breakthrough for me. Both Chen Xingtong and I brought 100% of our efforts to the table, and I think luck played a part too for my win today. I’m just happy to have come through.” – Wang Manyu
Wang Chuqin Completes WTT Finals Hat-Trick in Dominant Style
In a highly anticipated showdown, the king is back as Wang Chuqin (CHN) overwhelmed local hero Tomokazu Harimoto (JPN) in a commanding 4-0 victory (11-2, 11-8, 11-7, 11-5), winning three consecutive WTT Finals titles.
Wang wasted no time asserting his dominance, storming to a 10-0 lead in the opening game, silencing the home crowd while his traveling supporters cheered him on. Harimoto, in his third WTT Finals title match, tried to mount a response by mixing in tactical variations, including his signature backhand serve. While the adjustments helped him claw back some points, Wang’s precision and power proved unassailable.
Every rally was a showcase of Wang’s unmatched ability to turn defence into offence, leaving Harimoto reacting rather than dictating. From blistering forehands to his trademark banana backhand, Wang kept the Japanese star on the back foot throughout the match.
After a six-month wait since his last singles title, Wang Chuqin closed out 2024 on the ultimate high note, securing his ninth WTT Series Men’s Singles title and cementing his year-end World No.1 ranking.
“Harimoto and I have known each other for a long time. We’ve been long-time opponents since young, we’re familiar with one another’s play and have had our fair share of wins and losses. He’s at his peak whether physically or mentally. I didn’t expect today’s outcome either, and I just made the fullest of preparation coming into this match.” – Wang Chuqin
What a Year, What a Season!
With the conclusion of WTT Finals Fukuoka 2024, the 2024 WTT Series officially comes to a close. From groundbreaking performances to unforgettable rivalries, this year has been a celebration of everything that makes table tennis spectacular.
As we look ahead to 2025, the action is just around the corner! Fans can now mark their calendars for an exhilarating lineup of blockbuster events, featuring the debut of new WTT Grand Smashes, the return of iconic host cities, and a full slate of WTT Champions events all to be topped off with the season-ending WTT Finals.
The 2025 WTT Series kicks off in January with WTT Star Contender Doha and WTT Contender Muscat, leading into the highly anticipated return of Singapore Smash.
Credit: WTT Press