BEIJING, Aug. 2 (Xinhuawang) — On August 1st local time, in the quarterfinals of the men’s singles table tennis event at the Paris Olympic Games, Chinese player Fan Zhendong staged a remarkable comeback from a 0:2 deficit, defeating Japanese star Tomokazu Harimoto 4-3 and advancing to the semifinals.
The match began with Fan Zhendong entering the game slowly, unfortunately losing the first two sets. However, he steadied himself and fought back to level the score.
In the decisive set, both players were locked in a fierce battle. Midway through the set, Fan Zhendong had the upper hand in handling critical points, consistently scoring with his forehand attacks, ultimately securing victory. In the semifinals, Fan Zhendong will face French star F. Lebesson for a spot in the final.
After the match, Fan Zhendong said there was room for improvement in his performance, “The strength I unleash when faced with difficulties makes me even more determined for the matches ahead.” Additionally, Fan Zhendong praised Tomokazu Harimoto, stating that his opponent played exceptionally well and tenaciously, with the outcome only decided in the final moments of the match, “But I was prepared to fight until the very last ball.”
In his post-match analysis, Fan Zhendong admitted that he started the match passively and failed to find his rhythm. “Throughout the entire match, I remained resolute, never considering defeat. I fully committed myself to every point, be it serving or receiving serves. On the Olympic stage, I give my all against every opponent.”
Fan Zhendong stated that during the match, he does not think about winning or losing, but focuses solely on the game. “My goal is to win the match. The more experienced you become, the less likely you should be to lose. I don’t believe in such logic. Regardless of the situation, all one can do is focus on the match and bring out the best in oneself, believing that good results will follow.”
Following the match, Japanese media also commented on the proceedings. One Japanese outlet wrote that the aspiration to defeat the Chinese team crumbled on the brink of victory, as Fan Zhendong demonstrated his true prowess in the closing moments, taking control of the match.