PARIS – China’s Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha clinched the mixed doubles gold medal in table tennis at the 2024 Paris Olympics, triumphing over North Korea’s Ri Jong Sik and Kim Kum Yong with a score of 4-2 in the final. This victory not only secures their first Olympic gold but also marks a significant redemption for China’s table tennis program after missing out on gold in the mixed doubles at the Tokyo Olympics.
Victory and Redemption
Wang, 24, and Sun, 23, were the top seeds in the mixed doubles competition and lived up to their billing by securing the gold medal in a thrilling final. Their win was a long-awaited triumph for China, which has historically dominated the sport, winning 33 of the 38 gold medals available in table tennis since its introduction to the Olympics in 1988. The mixed doubles gold eluded them in Tokyo, making this win all the more significant.
“I think both sides performed exceptionally well in today’s final. Facing the mixed doubles loss at the Tokyo Olympics and coming to this point, I am very grateful to everyone on our team over the past three years,” said Sun Yingsha after the match.
North Korea’s Historic Silver
North Korea’s Ri Jong Sik and Kim Kum Yong, competing in their first Olympics, secured the silver medal. Their performance was notable not only for the result but also for their journey from qualifiers to the final, marking North Korea’s return to the Olympics after missing Tokyo.
“We prepared a lot for the Olympics. We had been in contact with the Chinese team, which is the world’s best. Of course it wasn’t enough at the end. We did have good performance but there are some regrets,” Kim reflected.
Bronze for South Korea
In the bronze medal match, South Korea’s Lim Jonghoon and Shin Yubin defeated Hong Kong’s Wong Chun-ting and Doo Hoi Kem with a decisive 4-0 score. The match saw a spirited effort from Hong Kong, particularly in the fourth game, where they briefly led 14-12 before ultimately losing.
Match Details and Final Moments
The final between China and North Korea saw Wang and Sun start strong, winning the first game 11-6. North Korea responded with a win in the second game (11-7), but China quickly regained control. Despite a comeback attempt from North Korea, China clinched the final game 11-8 after an intense rally, securing their gold.
China’s former table tennis great Deng Yaping, a four-time Olympic gold medalist, was present at the event, offering her support to the team.
Looking Ahead
With the mixed doubles gold secured, China will look to continue their dominance in table tennis in the remaining events of the Paris Olympics. The triumph of Wang and Sun serves as a testament to China’s continued strength in the sport, as they strive to build on their impressive Olympic legacy.
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