China's table tennis player Wang Chuqin claimed the championship at the WTT Finals Fukuoka, defeating Japan's Tomokazu Harimoto. Photo: Xinhua

China's table tennis player Wang Chuqin claimed the championship at the WTT Finals Fukuoka, defeating Japan's Tomokazu Harimoto 4-0 in the men's singles final on Sunday.  

The four games ended with scores of 11-2, 11-8, 11-7, and 11-5, with the entire match lasting less than 40 minutes. This marked Wang's third consecutive victory over Harimoto at the WTT Finals and secured his position as the year-end world No. 1. It also saw him achieve the feat of winning three consecutive men's singles titles at the WTT Finals.  

 "Harimoto is a long-time rival. We've played against each other since we were young, so we know each other very well and have both won and lost," Wang told the media in a post-match interview.  

 "I didn't expect a 4-0 win. I was well-prepared for a tough match. 2024 has been an extraordinary year with its ups and downs, but I'm grateful to end it by holding up three fingers," Wang remarked after the match.  

 "Harimoto has been in great form recently, playing exceptionally well and showing his best competitive state. I didn't anticipate this scoreline before the match, as I was prepared to face many challenges," he added.  

Speaking about his ranking, Wang said, "Achieving world No. 1 feels great, but I don't place too much emphasis on the ranking itself. What matters more to me is the process of winning."

Global Times