Zhang Zhijun: I Will Give My All to Defeat the Chinese Team
According to a report by Nichi Nippo on May 10: In the semi-finals of the London World Table Tennis Championships team event, Japan's men's team defeated Taiwan 3-0, advancing to the final for the first time in 10 years.
Japan, which won gold 57 years ago, is now just one victory away from claiming another gold medal by defeating China.
In the first match of the semi-final, Zhang Zhijun won 3-1 (5-11, 11-9, 12-10, 12-10); Matsushima Hikaru won 3-0 (11-8, 11-8, 11-4); and Toko Hayato won 3-0 (11-8, 11-9, 11-5).
As a key player, Zhang Zhijun said: "I believe if we can win, it should be a 3-0 victory. I believe in myself and my teammates—we are confident we can secure the win."
The final opponent will be China, who have won the title for 11 consecutive times. Although they suffered two unexpected losses, they defeated the strong French team 3-1 in the semi-finals, securing their 16th consecutive appearance in the final.
Zhang Zhijun said: "I'm very happy to have reached the final. For all the efforts made over the years, I will give my absolute best. We will all fight our hardest to beat China and claim the gold medal."
This marks the first time Japan has faced China since the start of this tournament.
Japan’s women’s team also advanced to the final for the sixth consecutive year and will compete against China for the championship.
2026 London World Table Tennis Championships
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864761455380555/
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