On New Year's Eve, Fan Zhendong and Wang Chuqin faced off in the second stage of the 2024 Ping Pong Super League. As everyone knows, in the first stage of the competition, Fan Zhendong defeated Wang Chuqin, helping Shanghai Real Estate secure a valuable point. However, in the second stage of the competition, which is the knockout stage of the finals, the outcome of their match became even more crucial.
The match between Fan Zhendong and Wang Chuqin had countless fans eagerly waiting. In the first game, both sides fought fiercely, but at the critical moment, Wang Chuqin played more aggressively. Apparently, Wang Chuqin was better prepared for this match, winning 11-9 and taking the lead with a score of 1-0. In the second game, Fan Zhendong made few adjustments, allowing Wang Chuqin to capitalize and win 11-5, extending his lead to 2-0.
In the third game, after making some adjustments, Fan Zhendong won the third game 11-5, narrowing the score to 1-2. In the fourth game, Fan Zhendong seemed to lack the motivation to continue fighting, and Wang Chuqin ultimately won the game 11-3, securing a 3-1 victory over Fan Zhendong and avenging his previous loss.
Analyzing this match, why was Wang Chuqin able to defeat Fan Zhendong? First, it was due to the advice from Xiao Zhan, the coach. Honestly, as a national team coach, Xiao Zhan should not have been involved in club matches. However, well-known journalists like Du Liyan exposed videos of Xiao Zhan coaching Wang Chuqin before the match. With Xiao Zhan's coaching and guidance, we can't say that Wang Chuqin's performance improved instantly, but at least he was better prepared.
Secondly, Wang Chuqin's preparation was key. According to well-known journalist He Xiaolong, after losing the first match, Wang Chuqin was determined to win this one. Whether it was seeking advice from Xiao Zhan or targeted training before the match, Wang Chuqin's preparation allowed him to perform better during the game.
Lastly, Fan Zhendong's reaction is noteworthy. This match may have been affected by the recent pressure from Fan Zhendong's withdrawal from the world rankings. Under this pressure, Fan Zhendong was not in top form, as even Deng Yaping commented that Fan Zhendong was not at his best. After the loss, Fan Zhendong did not show much disappointment on his face, as if he had already accepted the outcome. Interestingly, after the match, Fan Zhendong interacted seriously with the fans. Clearly aware that his opportunities to interact with fans would decrease in the future, Fan Zhendong cherished this chance and enjoyed engaging with the fans more than the match result itself.