Zhang Jike takes the gold!

Zhang Jike today showcased his superb skills and proved his status as world number 1 after defeating team mate Wang Hao 4-1 in the final of the London Olympics 2012.

After yesterdays controversial women’s final the men’s singles final was eagerly anticipated. After both Wang Hao and Zhang Jike won their semi-finals 4-1 this morning, there was no doubt that the final was bound to showcase some outstanding sport.

Although both players walked into the final evenly matched, Zhang Jike could have been seen to have the edge. Nevertheless, world number 4, Wang Hao was looking to achieve his first ever Olympic gold after having to settle for silver in both 2004 and 2008.

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The first set saw a battle with neither player managing to create a lead. However, after a time out that proved vital, Zhang Jike took the end 18-16.

The second, saw Zhang Jike storm ahead using his serve to great effect and dominating the rallies with his power, precision and consistency. He took the end 11-5.

After a good start from Wang Hao in the third set, Zhang Jike again began to dominate the end and only required one match point to take the end 11-6.

Tension filled the fourth set with both players seeming to begin to feel nerves. Even though Wang Hao never developed a strong lead over his opponent he definitely deserved to take the end and after a well called time out, allowing him to continue his focus, he took the end 12-10.

The tension continued throughout the fifth set and the full 6000 seat stadium fell quiet during the first half of the set. The set also added more controversy to an Olympics which has already been filled with it. After a fantastic rally, the umpire awarded a point to Wang Hao causing protests from Zhang Jike who felt the ball had touched the table. After looking back at the shot, it appears the ball does clip the edge of the table and the point was in fact Zhang Jikes. However, this decision did not affect Zhang Jikes performance and he took the fifth and final end 13-11.

Both players played incredibly well throughout the tournament but Zhang Jikes skill is unquestionable and his power and precision seemed unchallenged throughout the match.

The mens team event starts tomorrow evening and is sure to show more superb skill.

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Alice Gregory - TableTennisDaily
 
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