https://www.scmp.com/rss/518889/feed en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Olympic champions Fan Zhendong and Chen Meng stunned Chinese table tennis fans by announcing that they were withdrawing from the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) rankings on Friday, barely five months after winning Olympic gold. Fan and Chen, who at the Paris Games won gold in the men’s and women’s singles respectively as well as in team events, said the decision to step away was because of rules that fines would be imposed on players who did not take part in international... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3292442/china-olympic-champions-fan-zhendong-chen-meng-stun-table-tennis-fans-retirement?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3292442/china-olympic-champions-fan-zhendong-chen-meng-stun-table-tennis-fans-retirement?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Dec 2024 07:40:37 +0000 A Chinese sports blogger has been forced to issue a public apology for spreading false information about a retired table tennis athlete, as social media platforms in the country continue to battle against “obsessive fan culture”. The person running the Weibo account the Most Basketball World, which boasts more than 2.5 million followers, expressed their “deepest apology” after sharing a fake video they admitted damaged the reputations of Olympic champions Chen Meng and Sun Yingsha. Posted online... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3291323/chinese-influencer-issues-deepest-apology-fake-video-spreading-table-tennis-lies?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3291323/chinese-influencer-issues-deepest-apology-fake-video-spreading-table-tennis-lies?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Dec 2024 06:22:10 +0000 China players said the comeback victory over Japan in the opening doubles match of the women’s team table tennis final was the key to winning their fifth Olympic gold medal on Saturday. Sun Yingsha and Wang Manyu also admitted Japan’s performance was better than they expected, as China battled to a hard-fought victory at the South Paris Arena. Chen Meng, the women’s singles champion, said even the very first point of the tie had been “vital because it was all about a good start”. “A win could... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3274038/paris-olympics-chinas-women-hail-strong-bond-after-team-table-tennis-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3274038/paris-olympics-chinas-women-hail-strong-bond-after-team-table-tennis-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 11 Aug 2024 01:30:24 +0000 China completed clean sweeps in table tennis and diving in Paris yesterday, making history in the latter as the most successful country ever in the sport at the Olympics. On another golden day in the French capital, there was success too for weightlifter Liu Huanhua and in the women’s rhythmic gymnastics, taking the country’s overall number to 37, just one fewer than the team won in Tokyo three years ago, and four more than the United States had at one point last night. Pre-Games predictions had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274030/paris-olympics-table-tennis-diving-sweeps-china-beat-medal-forecast-race-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3274030/paris-olympics-table-tennis-diving-sweeps-china-beat-medal-forecast-race-us?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 16:27:36 +0000 It’s nearly over, but that doesn’t mean things slow down. Day 15 sees huge names in global sport looking to add Olympic gold – or in some cases more Olympic gold – to their medal collection. Women’s football will say goodbye to arguably its greatest-ever player, but will it be a happy farewell? Meanwhile, China’s table tennis domination shows no sign of stopping and is likely to continue. So let’s take a look at what’s happening with all times, as usual, specified as HKT. Not a sprint Strap... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273992/paris-olympics-us-basketball-gold-marathon-golf-and-more-5-things-know-day-15?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3273992/paris-olympics-us-basketball-gold-marathon-golf-and-more-5-things-know-day-15?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 04:30:08 +0000 Chinese fans have sung the praises of table tennis legend Ma Long after he won a sixth gold medal to complete his 12-year Olympic journey. The 35-year-old had hinted Paris would spell the end of his illustrious career, but many netizens have called for him to play at the next Games in Los Angeles. Ma made history as the first Chinese athlete to have six Olympic gold medals after helping the men’s team beat Sweden on Friday to continue his unique and perfect record since London. Chinese fans... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273989/paris-olympics-godlike-ma-long-hailed-chinese-social-media-after-sixth-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273989/paris-olympics-godlike-ma-long-hailed-chinese-social-media-after-sixth-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 02:58:01 +0000 China table tennis legend Ma Long hinted he may call time on his illustrious career after being given the opportunity to bow out on the ultimate high. The 35-year-old, who helped the men’s team to victory over Sweden on Friday, won his first Olympic gold medal in 2012 and has claimed at least one at every Summer Games since. But now it appears as though his incredible journey is coming to an end after completing a 12-year Olympic journey spanning four Games with another gold medal. “The Paris... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273982/china-table-tennis-legend-ma-long-proud-sixth-olympic-gold-and-great-paris-moments?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273982/china-table-tennis-legend-ma-long-proud-sixth-olympic-gold-and-great-paris-moments?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 10 Aug 2024 00:30:09 +0000 There was plenty of drama but in the end no surprises at the South Paris Arena, as China brushed aside Sweden 3-0 on Friday to maintain their perfect record in the table tennis men’s team final. The seventh seeds could do nothing in the face of a powerful Chinese legion, led by the legendary Ma Long, who won his sixth Olympic gold medal, four of which have come in team events. Since the inclusion of the category in Beijing in 2008, China have swept all eight golds, and now nine, across the men’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273972/paris-olympics-chinas-men-seal-team-gold-complete-table-tennis-domination?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3273972/paris-olympics-chinas-men-seal-team-gold-complete-table-tennis-domination?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 16:11:43 +0000 China’s table tennis champions Sun Yingsha and Wang Chuqin have captured more than just Olympic gold – they have also won the hearts of fans, who see them as an inseparable pair. Their on-court chemistry has sparked a social media phenomenon, with supporters dubbing them “a couple” who have weathered triumphs and challenges side by side. On Weibo, China’s Facebook equivalent, devoted fans have created a “Chaohua page” called “5114 Sha Tou” – a cleverly crafted moniker that blends the athletes’... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273749/paris-olympics-fans-see-chinas-table-tennis-champs-sun-yingsha-wang-chuqin-couple?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273749/paris-olympics-fans-see-chinas-table-tennis-champs-sun-yingsha-wang-chuqin-couple?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:00:11 +0000 South Korea’s table tennis coach Joo Sae-hyuk was left in tears after his side lost their men’s team table tennis quarter-final to China. Cho Dae-seong, Jang Woo-jin, and Lim Jong-hoon were beaten 3-0 by China’s trio of Fan Zhendong, Wang Chuqin and Ma Long. China have won team Olympic gold in every single edition since its inclusion at the 2008 Games in Beijing. “We have lost every single time we faced the Chinese table tennis team,” Joo said. “It has been [the same] for over 20 years. “Our... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273679/paris-olympics-south-koreas-coach-tears-after-losing-table-tennis-clash-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273679/paris-olympics-south-koreas-coach-tears-after-losing-table-tennis-clash-china?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 08 Aug 2024 07:00:13 +0000 The International Olympic Committee said the incident that damaged China table tennis star Wang Chuqin’s favourite paddle had been thoroughly investigated and the matter closed. A photographer had accidentally stepped on the bat, officials said, and the case was considered dealt with. Wang had been celebrating winning mixed doubles gold with partner Sun Yingsha at the time of the incident, and surprisingly lost his first singles match against eventual finalist Truls Moregard the following... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273625/paris-olympics-ioc-says-no-new-probe-wang-bat-damage-china-fans-demand-answers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273625/paris-olympics-ioc-says-no-new-probe-wang-bat-damage-china-fans-demand-answers?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 17:00:10 +0000 As day 12 of the Olympics is ushered in, we have knockout rounds and new starts galore. Weightlifting and golf are among those to join the party, while we are getting to the business end of the women’s basketball. As usual, there is plenty of athletics to keep you occupied and lots of reasons to stay up late to keep on top of the action. But just how should you plan your evening? Well, let’s take a look at the what’s coming up, with times noted in Hong Kong time. Weightlifting begins Day 12 is... https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3273500/paris-olympics-wu-yanni-debuts-us-womens-basketball-5-things-know-day-12?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/basketball/article/3273500/paris-olympics-wu-yanni-debuts-us-womens-basketball-5-things-know-day-12?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 07 Aug 2024 04:30:09 +0000 China has had such a stranglehold on table tennis for decades that other countries, in an attempt to get their foot in the door, have been scouring the country’s diaspora to bolster their delegations and boost their chances at Olympic gold. At this year’s Paris Olympics, Germany, Australia, Canada, France, the United States, Slovakia, Fiji, South Korea, Monaco, Portugal and even Hong Kong have taken players either born on the mainland or are of Chinese descent. Luxembourg and Chile both went a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273448/paris-olympics-youth-aunties-chinese-diaspora-features-strongly-table-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3273448/paris-olympics-youth-aunties-chinese-diaspora-features-strongly-table-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:00:11 +0000 Doo Hoi-kem said she was to blame for Hong Kong’s shock loss to Sweden that ended the city’s hopes in the women’s team table tennis competition in Paris. Bronze medallists three years ago, No 6 seeds Hong Kong fell at the first hurdle this time, in the round of 16 late on Monday. They won the opening doubles of the five-match tie, through Doo and Lee Ho-ching, but lost the subsequent two singles matches and needed Zhu Chengzhu to win the crucial fourth match to make it 2-2. Lee then lost to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3273431/paris-olympics-doo-hoi-kem-takes-blame-hong-kongs-shock-table-tennis-loss-sweden?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3273431/paris-olympics-doo-hoi-kem-takes-blame-hong-kongs-shock-table-tennis-loss-sweden?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Aug 2024 10:44:43 +0000 World records lit up the small hours at the Paris Olympics, with track and field providing the highest point and the cycling velodrome raising the speedometer. There was that lesser-spotted thing, a medal for China in athletics, but in a second week when Hong Kong’s podium hopes are less numerous, one stand-out possibility was extinguished. Those who were awake may wish they had gone to bed thinking the city’s table tennis players were still in the fight, but alas, they are not. Let us talk you... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273325/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-duplantis-world-record-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/athletics/article/3273325/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-duplantis-world-record-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 05 Aug 2024 23:38:15 +0000 Fan Zhendong spun, sliced and smashed his way to men’s table tennis Olympic gold at a euphoric South Paris Arena 4 on Sunday. The exceptional China star overcame the loss of the first game and five dropped gold medal points against resurgent Swede Truls Moregard to win 7-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-8, 11-8 and stretch China’s dominance of this event to a fifth Games. Fan was beaten in the Tokyo Olympics final by legendary compatriot Ma Long. Some supporters at home questioned the selectors’ decision to... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273170/paris-olympics-fan-spins-slices-and-smashes-way-first-singles-gold-sealing-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273170/paris-olympics-fan-spins-slices-and-smashes-way-first-singles-gold-sealing-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 16:15:00 +0000 Chinese fans are celebrating Fan Zhendong’s table tennis gold in the men’s singles, which has continued country’s streak of gold medals in Olympic event since 2008. Fan recovered from a game down against Truls Moregard, who surprisingly knocked out China’s world No 1 Wang Chuqin in the round of 32, to win 4-1. Victory marked the 27-year-old’ completion of a career gand slam, having now secured singles titles in the World Championships, World Cup, and Olympics. There was extra pressure on Fan... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273168/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-praised-chinese-social-after-gold-seals-career-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273168/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-praised-chinese-social-after-gold-seals-career-grand-slam?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 14:25:24 +0000 Chinese social media platform Weibo has banned more than 300 accounts for “inciting conflict” after users expressed their dismay at Chen Meng’s victory over compatriot Sun Yingsha in the women’s table tennis final in Paris on Saturday. Chen beat Sun 4-2 at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles to retain her Olympic title, in a final that was a repeat of the one played in Tokyo three years ago. While Sun is a national hero in China, despite Chen holding three Olympic gold medals, Chen divides... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273131/chinese-fans-boo-table-tennis-champion-chen-meng-sparking-furious-online-reaction-home?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273131/chinese-fans-boo-table-tennis-champion-chen-meng-sparking-furious-online-reaction-home?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 04 Aug 2024 05:29:05 +0000 Despite relocating from the field to the stands in Paris, table tennis legend Ma Long has proved to be far from a star whose power is fading. Following the shock exit of the world’s No 1 Wang Chuqin in the round of 32 of the men’s singles on Wednesday, Chinese social media has been abuzz with calls for Ma, the reigning champion, to return to the table and defend the nation’s honour. Named as flag-bearer of China’s delegation at the opening ceremony in Paris, Ma was excluded from the singles... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3273099/paris-olympics-ma-long-fans-call-return-table-tennis-legend-after-no-1s-exit?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3273099/paris-olympics-ma-long-fans-call-return-table-tennis-legend-after-no-1s-exit?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Aug 2024 12:06:03 +0000 This live blog has been made freely available as a public service to our readers. Please consider supporting SCMP’s journalism by subscribing. Download our app to get faster notifications and 14 days of unlimited access. Gold and successful women was the theme for today’s action in Paris. China’s athletes were in the finals of the tennis, badminton and table tennis, and at least two titles were guaranteed. Zheng Qinwen was chasing glory in the women’s singles on the clay courts of Roland Garros,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273080/paris-olympics-day-8-gold-and-successful-women-theme-zheng-chen-chase-glory?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273080/paris-olympics-day-8-gold-and-successful-women-theme-zheng-chen-chase-glory?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Aug 2024 08:00:27 +0000 In a recent article on the official Olympics website, which highlighted 12 of the “biggest athletes to watch at Paris 2024”, table tennis star Sun Yingsha was the sole Chinese athlete featured. “The People’s Republic of China has never lost the women’s singles event in table tennis at the Olympic Games. World No 1 Sun will look to keep the streak alive in Paris,” the article stated. A gold medallist in women’s singles at both the World Cup and World Championships, she is one match away from... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273073/sun-yingsha-chinas-no-1-ranked-table-tennis-star-eyes-history-olympic-gold-paris?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3273073/sun-yingsha-chinas-no-1-ranked-table-tennis-star-eyes-history-olympic-gold-paris?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Aug 2024 06:30:10 +0000 Chinese sensation Fan Zhendong has captivated not only table tennis enthusiasts but also the massive fan base of American pop star Taylor Swift. After Fan romped France’s Felix Lebrun to advance to the men’s singles final in Paris, internet users began superimposing Fan’s face on Swift posters and stickers to rally support for the table tennis stand-out. Fan, a self-proclaimed Swiftie, has openly expressed his admiration for the musical legend. “Music is universal. Great musicians like Taylor... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273072/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-conquers-swifties-due-admiration-taylor-swift?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3273072/paris-olympics-fan-zhendong-conquers-swifties-due-admiration-taylor-swift?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Aug 2024 05:25:41 +0000 Day eight of action in Paris is yet to begin, but China has already guaranteed itself silver and gold medals. And while the country seems to have medals at its disposal today, a whole array of Eiffel Tower scraps are up for grabs. While eyes on this part of the world will be transfixed to racquet sports, there’s a whole buffet of sports available in the French capital. So here’s five things you’ll want to keep your eyes on with all times noted in Hong Kong Time. Gold guaranteed This could go... https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3273068/paris-olympics-5-watch-day-8-imane-khelif-action-queen-wen-gunning-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/boxing/article/3273068/paris-olympics-5-watch-day-8-imane-khelif-action-queen-wen-gunning-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 03 Aug 2024 04:30:36 +0000 Chinese table tennis star Fan Zhendong scraped through to the men’s singles semi-final after a pulsating contest against Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto on Thursday, but their intense match turned Chinese social media into a hotbed for debate. Harimoto, 21, was born in Japan’s Miyagi prefecture to Chinese parents and was naturalised as a Japanese citizen in 2014. His parents, Zhang Yu and Zhang Ling, are both former table tennis players from Sichuan, China, but moved to Japan in 1998. His mother had... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272881/chinese-social-media-reacts-china-v-japan-table-tennis-clash-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272881/chinese-social-media-reacts-china-v-japan-table-tennis-clash-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 Aug 2024 05:00:08 +0000 I think interesting might be the best way to describe day six at the Paris Olympics. If you were Chinese, then much of it was spent defending Pan Zhanle from attacks on several fronts, or watching the badminton start to reach the exciting stage of proceedings. During normal waking hours, which aren’t exactly conducive to following an Olympics several time zones away, tennis star Zheng Qinwen made history by reaching the final of the women’s singles, and there were gold medals in shooting and... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272865/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-drama-zhang-and-fan-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272865/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-drama-zhang-and-fan-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Aug 2024 23:30:10 +0000 Vivian Kong Man-wai may be home already, but there is plenty to come on day six in what is becoming a riveting Games. As Hongkongers absorb the news of Siobhan Haughey’s second bronze, they will also be asking what’s coming next. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Unless you’ve been off the grid, Simone Biles became the world’s most decorated gymnast after Tuesday and she is back in search of more gold – with golf also entering the fray. There’s something for everyone, though, so let’s take a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272723/paris-olympics-biles-quest-more-gold-zhengs-semi-final-5-things-know-day-6?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272723/paris-olympics-biles-quest-more-gold-zhengs-semi-final-5-things-know-day-6?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Aug 2024 04:30:11 +0000 Age is just a number for Luxembourg’s 61-year-old “table-tennis grandma” Ni Xialian, who won the hearts of spectators for the joy, passion and sportsmanship displayed during her defeat to top seed Sun Yingsha. Cheers from the crowd at the women’s singles round-of-32 match on Wednesday intensified to a standing ovation for Ni after she lost 4-0 to China’s Sun. Ni waved to the crowd with tears in her eyes after the game, and told reporters that playing with the 32-year-old Sun was a dream of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272726/chinese-social-media-love-61-year-old-auntie-nis-fun-spirit-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272726/chinese-social-media-love-61-year-old-auntie-nis-fun-spirit-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Aug 2024 03:30:12 +0000 China’s table tennis player Wang Chuqin has refused to blame a broken paddle for his shock loss in the early rounds of the men’s singles table tennis on Wednesday. The world’s No 1 lost 4-2 in the round of 32 to Sweden’s Truls Moregard, in the biggest upset at the Paris Olympics so far. While compatriot Fan Zhendong beat Hong Kong’s Wong Chun-ting 4-1 to keep his medal hopes alive, Wang’s defeat means China will not win gold and silver in the event for the first time since the Athens Games in... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272673/paris-olympics-chinas-wang-refuses-blame-shock-table-tennis-loss-damaged-paddle?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272673/paris-olympics-chinas-wang-refuses-blame-shock-table-tennis-loss-damaged-paddle?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:21:21 +0000 North Korea has come away with an Olympic silver medal in table tennis mixed doubles at the Paris Games. Ri Jong-sik and Kim Kum-yong were beaten in the final by China’s Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha on Tuesday. The medal was North Korea’s first in eight years, coming after the country missed the Tokyo Games and despite the squad being ranked bottom among 16 teams. https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272657/paris-olympics-win-north-korea-table-tennis-doubles-team-earns-silver?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272657/paris-olympics-win-north-korea-table-tennis-doubles-team-earns-silver?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:07:50 +0000 A selfie featuring North Korean, South Korean and Chinese athletes has been branded by internet users as the “most significant photo” from the Paris Games and hailed as a rare show of cross-border unity and “true Olympics spirit”. The podium moment after the table tennis mixed doubles finals on Wednesday saw athletes from the two Koreas briefly share the stage, following an intense match between China and North Korea. China’s Wang Chuqin and Sun Yingsha beat North Korea’s Ri Jong-sik and Kim... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272620/selfie-north-korean-south-korean-chinese-paddlers-called-games-most-significant-photo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/buzz/article/3272620/selfie-north-korean-south-korean-chinese-paddlers-called-games-most-significant-photo?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Jul 2024 08:12:33 +0000 China’s 24-year-old table tennis player Wang Chuqin was overjoyed after securing his first Olympic gold medal alongside teammate Sun Yingsha on Tuesday. But his elation soon turned to disbelief, anger and frustration when he discovered that his paddle – crucial for his singles and team events – had been damaged by excited photographers rushing to capture the moment. Visibly upset, Wang tried to ask for an explanation. His coach tried to hug him in an effort to console him and ask him to stay... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3272570/china-fans-fury-concern-after-table-tennis-olympic-gold-medallist-wang-has-bat-damaged?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3272570/china-fans-fury-concern-after-table-tennis-olympic-gold-medallist-wang-has-bat-damaged?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 31 Jul 2024 03:18:03 +0000 Hong Kong’s table tennis mixed doubles duo admitted there was a big gap between them and the front runners in the world after they had to settle for fourth place at the Paris Olympics on Tuesday. Wong Chun-ting and Doo Hoi-kem were swept aside by Lim Jong-hoon and Shin Yubin of South Korea in 39-minute encounter, losing 11-5, 11-7, 11-7, 14-12 at South Paris Arena 4. Finishing just outside the podium places bettered their quarter-final exit in Tokyo three years ago, but Doo said the gap to those... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272533/paris-olympics-table-tennis-best-miles-ahead-hong-kong-duo-say-after-koreans-win-bronze?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272533/paris-olympics-table-tennis-best-miles-ahead-hong-kong-duo-say-after-koreans-win-bronze?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Jul 2024 15:12:36 +0000 How to follow Hong Kong’s magic Monday? Repeat 50 per cent of the formula and add a confirmed table tennis medal match. The extraordinary half-hour that brought fencing gold for Cheung Ka-long and swimming bronze for Siobhan Haughey at the end of day three will be difficult to top, let alone on the next day. But Haughey dives straight back into the pool on Tuesday, and her second event could end with her on top of the podium rather than on its lowest step. Table tennis player Doo Hoi-kem has the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/asia/article/3272422/paris-olympics-5-watch-day-4-include-haughey-part-2-and-triathlon-dirty-seine?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/asia/article/3272422/paris-olympics-5-watch-day-4-include-haughey-part-2-and-triathlon-dirty-seine?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 30 Jul 2024 04:32:41 +0000 Table tennis mixed doubles pair Wong Chun-ting and Doo Hoi-kem have promised to channel Vivian Kong Man-wai’s gutsy exploits after moving to within one win of a medal at the Paris Olympics. Podium hopefuls Doo and Wong took time out to witness compatriot Kong’s golden performance as she overcame home fencer Auriane Mallo-Breton to win épée gold on Saturday. Following her victory, Kong said it was the “Hong Kong spirit” that drove her, and table tennis duo are hoping to follow suit having also... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272250/hong-kong-table-tennis-pair-channel-vivian-kong-spirit-quest-paris-olympic-medal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272250/hong-kong-table-tennis-pair-channel-vivian-kong-spirit-quest-paris-olympic-medal?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:15:09 +0000 Magic Monday? Medal Monday? Hong Kong will hope one of those phrases applies after day three of the Paris Olympics. It’s a day stacked with the city’s biggest hitters. Both of its flag-bearers, in fact, in the shape of Cheung Ka-long and Siobhan Haughey. Fencer Cheung may, by the early hours of Tuesday back home, be on the podium again, having stood on its top step when winning gold at the last Games in Tokyo three years ago. Almost simultaneously, swimmer Haughey will aim to achieve similar by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272248/paris-olympics-can-cheung-haughey-give-hong-kong-magic-monday-5-watch-day-3?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272248/paris-olympics-can-cheung-haughey-give-hong-kong-magic-monday-5-watch-day-3?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 29 Jul 2024 04:30:11 +0000 The second full day of the Paris Olympics ended with a witching hour to savour for those awake in Hong Kong, and ensured pleasant breakfast reading for those who were not. It was nearly 4am when swimmer Siobhan Haughey qualified for the final of the 200 metres freestyle, rounding off a Sunday in which table tennis mixed doubles duo Wong Chun-ting and Doo Hoi-kem also got within reach of a podium. Medals could be clinched on what threatens to be a magical Monday, with fencer Cheung Ka-long,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272235/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-haughey-earns-medal-shot-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/aquatics/article/3272235/while-you-were-sleeping-5-things-know-after-haughey-earns-medal-shot-paris-olympics?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Jul 2024 23:33:15 +0000 Ni Xialian and Zeng Zhiying were once Chinese table tennis teammates but never made it to the Olympics for the land of their birth. Four decades on, they are both at the Paris Games representing other countries. At 61, Ni is one of the oldest athletes in what is her sixth Olympics, representing Luxembourg where she moved to in the late 1980s after winning two world championship gold medals for China. “Three years ago, after Tokyo I thought I could retire,” Ni said. “But our federation of the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3272171/former-chinese-table-tennis-teammates-paris-olympics-40-years-different-nations?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3272171/former-chinese-table-tennis-teammates-paris-olympics-40-years-different-nations?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 28 Jul 2024 00:49:35 +0000 Doo Hoi-kem said unleashing an “aggressive” gameplan was responsible for Hong Kong’s mixed doubles table tennis duo booking a quarter-final clash with Spain on Sunday. The seasoned duo of Doo and Wong Chun-ting survived a handful of wobbles for a 4-1 last-16 victory over Hungarian 11th seeds Nandor Ecseki and Dora Madarasz on the Olympics’ opening day. The Honkongers won the opening set 11-9, despite falling 9-8 behind after leading 8-5. A sloppy third set allowed the Hungarians to get on the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272165/hong-kong-duo-turn-aggression-keep-paris-olympic-medal-hopes-alive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/table-tennis/article/3272165/hong-kong-duo-turn-aggression-keep-paris-olympic-medal-hopes-alive?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Jul 2024 21:33:31 +0000 Table tennis phenom Fan Zhendong, China’s household name, clinched at least one title each year since emerging on the international scene in 2013. And on Sunday, he topped his already stellar resume with Olympic gold. His triumph over Sweden’s Truls Moregard in the finale in Paris marked an upgrade from his silver medal in Tokyo, earning him the distinction of China’s fifth man to complete a “grand slam” by winning the main prize at the World Championships, World Cup and Olympic Games. The... https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3271014/fan-zhendong-chinas-table-tennis-star-looking-complete-grand-slam-olympic-gold?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/china/article/3271014/fan-zhendong-chinas-table-tennis-star-looking-complete-grand-slam-olympic-gold?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Jul 2024 09:00:10 +0000 Fencing coach Greg Koenig said Cheung Ka-long being the city’s flag-bearer at Friday’s Olympic opening ceremony could be a good omen as the Hongkonger seeks to defend his title in Paris. The reigning men’s foil champion carried Hong Kong’s Bauhinia flag alongside swimmer Siobhan Haughey and Koenig said he had only one query when his pupil approached him for permission. “I only asked, ‘Do you want to do it’?” the Frenchman said. “Cheung replied he wanted to represent Hong Kong and would be proud... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272063/cheung-ka-longs-role-paris-olympics-ceremony-good-omen-hongkongers-history-bid?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3272063/cheung-ka-longs-role-paris-olympics-ceremony-good-omen-hongkongers-history-bid?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Jul 2024 00:00:14 +0000 Team Hong Kong returned home from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 with a historic haul of six medals, marking the city’s most triumphant performance in a Games in 69 years of competing. Hong Kong first took part at the Olympic Games in 1952, when it was a British colony. Hopes were often usually restrained for the performances of the city’s athletes. However, that all changed in 1996 when windsurfer Lee Lai-shan won gold in Atlanta. Twenty-five years later in Tokyo, fencer Cheung Ka-long wrote his... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/hong-kong/article/3271238/paris-olympics-who-have-won-games-medals-hong-kong-and-where-are-they-now?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/hong-kong/article/3271238/paris-olympics-who-have-won-games-medals-hong-kong-and-where-are-they-now?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Jul 2024 09:30:09 +0000 The city’s mixed-doubles table tennis pair have been handed a favourable draw at the Paris Olympics, but head coach Li Ching remained cautious and said the players needed to get into the zone fast and early. Placed in the bottom half of the draw, Wong Chun-ting and Doo Hoi-kem managed to avoid top seeds Wong Chuqin and Sun Yingsha of China. The Hongkongers, who are in the same half as Japanese No 2 seeds Tomokazu Harimoto and Hina Hayata, will play world No 12 Nandor Ecseki and Dora Madarasz of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271885/paris-olympics-hong-kong-mixed-doubles-pairs-draw-leaves-coach-li-smiling-cautious?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271885/paris-olympics-hong-kong-mixed-doubles-pairs-draw-leaves-coach-li-smiling-cautious?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Jul 2024 11:30:12 +0000 Battling scorching Paris heat, Thailand’s Orawan Paranang is eyeing more than Olympic glory – she also wants China’s portable air conditioners and mouth-watering “Green Beans Braised Noodles”. The 26-year-old table tennis star, competing in her second-straight Games, shared a series of Instagram stories expressing playful jealousy towards the Chinese delegation, who arrived in Paris well equipped to tackle the sweltering heat and combat the unorthodox food offerings. “It’s so hot for five people... https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3271600/thai-olympian-eyes-china-benefits-instagram-post-highlights-lack-air-conditioning?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3271600/thai-olympian-eyes-china-benefits-instagram-post-highlights-lack-air-conditioning?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Jul 2024 14:00:14 +0000 Hong Kong’s second-ever Olympic medal came in table tennis in 2004, and men’s doubles pair Li Ching and Ko Lai-chak were agreed about what the most memorable moment of it was. Looking back at the Athens Games 20 years later, they said in unison that winning the semi-final against Russia’s Dmitry Mazunov and Alexey Smirnov was better than pocketing silver medals after losing the final. “It was because winning the semi-final guaranteed a medal,” Ko, 48, said. “If we had lost, we still had to play... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3270856/olympic-memory-when-desperate-2004-table-tennis-duo-won-hong-kongs-second-ever-medal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3270856/olympic-memory-when-desperate-2004-table-tennis-duo-won-hong-kongs-second-ever-medal?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 23 Jul 2024 04:00:09 +0000 Olympics medal hopeful Doo Hoi-kem is to adopt a different approach in Paris after excessive pressure took a toll on her in Tokyo three years ago. The Hongkonger revealed that when the first ball is hit on Saturday she hopes to be better equipped, having crumbled in Japan alongside mixed doubles partner Wong Chun-ting when there was a “really strong” desire to go for a medal. “I am reminding myself to empty my expectations,” said Doo, who still won team bronze in 2021. “It’s still an everyday... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271366/paris-olympics-doo-hoi-kem-wants-medal-reveals-mistake-hong-kong-must-not-repeat?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271366/paris-olympics-doo-hoi-kem-wants-medal-reveals-mistake-hong-kong-must-not-repeat?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:00:13 +0000 Mike Chan Mike Chan Hong Kong’s table tennis stars will leave for Paris dreaming of medals and money, even if head coach Li Ching said the women’s team might struggle to defend the bronze they won in Tokyo. However, with Doo Hoi-kem and Wong Chun-ting ranked highly in the mixed doubles, the former Olympics silver medallist jokingly said he was already thinking about the million dollar bonuses promised to the city’s athletes if they taste success in the French capital. On Friday, the team had one final press call... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271196/paris-olympics-table-tennis-stars-dreaming-medals-and-money-they-head-games?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3271196/paris-olympics-table-tennis-stars-dreaming-medals-and-money-they-head-games?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 19 Jul 2024 13:32:38 +0000 China’s Ma Long will get a shot at winning a sixth Olympic gold medal in Paris in August, despite having been denied the chance to claim a third straight singles title at his fourth Summer Games. The 14-times world champion, now 35, won team golds at all three of his previous Games and back-to-back men’s singles titles in Rio and Tokyo to become the most successful Olympic table tennis player of all time. Wang Chuqin and Fan Zhendong, who lost to Ma in the Tokyo final, were named as China’s... https://www.scmp.com/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3270665/paris-olympics-chinas-ma-gets-shot-sixth-table-tennis-gold-no-individual-glory-awaits?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/paris-olympics-2024/china/article/3270665/paris-olympics-chinas-ma-gets-shot-sixth-table-tennis-gold-no-individual-glory-awaits?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Jul 2024 09:38:36 +0000 One of Hong Kong’s top table tennis stars, Doo Hoi-kem, has revealed she is still struggling with injury, less than a month before the Paris Olympics. The Tokyo Games bronze medallist has been battling a long-standing issue with her right elbow, and officials said they were “working on all fronts” to get Doo as fit as possible in the next three weeks. Coach Zhang Rui described Doo’s injury in her right elbow as “unstable”, and said it was causing the 27-year-old some pain. “We just hope to make... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3269712/paris-olympics-hong-kong-medal-hopeful-doo-reveals-she-battling-elbow-injury?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3269712/paris-olympics-hong-kong-medal-hopeful-doo-reveals-she-battling-elbow-injury?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:13 +0000 A group of Chinese table tennis superfans have threatened to protest at the Paris Olympics over the decision not to pick one of the country’s best players – after saying authorities had silenced them at home. Members told the Post that fans at the Games were likely to hold up banners and distribute fliers as part of a continuing campaign against the decision of the Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA) to leave out world No 2 Wang Manyu. Their efforts to be heard have brought them into... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3269399/angry-chinese-table-tennis-superfans-threaten-paris-olympics-protest-over-squad-selection?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3269399/angry-chinese-table-tennis-superfans-threaten-paris-olympics-protest-over-squad-selection?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Jul 2024 00:00:18 +0000 The Hong Kong delegation’s entries in the Olympic Games increased to 32 after table tennis player Wong Chun-ting sealed a berth in the men’s singles in Paris. Despite seeing his latest world ranking drop by one place to No 49, Wong was awarded the spot reserved for the next highest-ranked player in East Asia after each of the region’s qualifiers in the team event had been allocated two players. There was no East Asia qualifying tournament, because of a lack of participants. A source at Hong... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3263845/paris-olympics-hong-kongs-games-entries-grow-wong-chun-ting-earns-table-tennis-mens-singles-spot?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3263845/paris-olympics-hong-kongs-games-entries-grow-wong-chun-ting-earns-table-tennis-mens-singles-spot?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 May 2024 12:58:48 +0000