Harimoto: "It's presumptuous to call it a rivalry." (#1135)

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https://www.tabletennisdaily.com/fo...-dos-campos-2026-july-21-26.39640/post-583190
Told you. And Uda did all that without Qiu Jianxin at the bench, whom wouldn't have approached him without reason.

On that note, Kishikawa should be fired.
TAKAGI Mina's write-up on Uda's match with Calderano at WTT SCT São José dos Campos 2026 and his recent progress.

宇田幸矢 熾烈な代表争いの現在地「苦しい。でも、今しかできない」
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/tabletennis/news/2026/08/042278.html
あと1点が、どうしても遠かった。

2026年7月26日、ブラジルで行われたWTTスターコンテンダー サン・ジョゼ・ドス・カンポス男子シングルス準決勝。

宇田幸矢(協和キリン/世界ランク23位)は、ブラジルのエースで世界卓球2025ドーハ銀メダルのカルデラノ(世界ランク8位)をあと一歩のところまで追い詰めた。

宇田はこれまで4回、カルデラノと対戦しているが、まだ白星はない。

その宇田がゲームカウント2-1リードで迎えた第4ゲーム。先にマッチポイントを握ったのは宇田だった。しかし、チャンスを決めきれず、結局5度のマッチポイントを逃して、このゲームを19-21で落とした。

一方、流れをつかんだカルデラノは最終ゲームも奪って逆転勝利。宇田の快進撃はベスト4で止まった。

「4ゲーム目から最後まで同じような展開になってしまったので、もう一捻り欲しかった。特にサーブからの展開を変えても良かった」

宇田は、勝敗を分けた局面をそう振り返る。

一進一退の攻防の最中に自ら戦術を変えるには勇気が要る。わずかな判断ミスが、それまで保たれていた均衡を一気に崩すこともある。
この日、カルデラノに効いていたのはフォア前への短いサーブ。宇田はそれを別のサーブに変えることをためらった。

「ちょっとずつ点が取れなくなっていく感覚はあった。そういうときに、いつ戦術を変えるのか。そこが自分の課題です」

しかも、5度のマッチポイントはすべてレシーブだった。自分のサーブから局面を動かす機会がなかったことも判断を難しくした。それでも、この敗戦には宇田の確かな成長が刻まれていた。

パワーのあるカルデラノに少しでも余裕を与えれば、強烈な一撃をくらう。そこで宇田はカルデラノを台から下げることを意識し、得意のラリーに引き込んだ。

短いサーブのバリエーションも増えたことで、要所のロングサーブが生きた。ストレートへの1球でサービスエースを奪う場面もあった。

以前の宇田は自身のやりたいプレーに意識が向きがちだったが、今は相手の読みを外すプレーや、あえて相手に打たせてカウンターを狙うこともできる。

「最近は冷静に戦えるようになってきたし、相手によって戦い方を変えることもできていると感じます。戦術の幅や技術力が上がったので、余裕を持って攻めていける」

変化をもたらしたのは、2025年春頃から本格的に師事する邱建新コーチである。

過去に水谷隼さん(木下グループ)や石川佳純さん(全農)らトップ選手たちをオリンピックや世界選手権のメダルへと導いた名将だ。

国際大会を転戦する宇田が日本にいられる日数は限られているが、可能な限り東京から大阪へ出向き、邱コーチの練習場で汗を流す。

邱コーチの練習メニューは容赦ない。メニュー間のインターバルは数秒と短く「水を飲む程度です」と宇田。

フットワーク練習で打つボールもカウンター対カウンター。ブロックでしのぐことは許されない。

「いったい何球、ボールを打つんだろうって。本当にきついです」

そう言って宇田は苦笑するが「練習をやり込んでいると、無我夢中だったジュニアの頃のハングリーさを思い出すんです。気持ちが若返ります」と、その目は輝いている。

邱コーチが繰り返す言葉がある。

「これだけきつい練習をやったのだから、と試合中に一瞬でも思えるかどうかだ」

試合当日、いきなり技術力が上がるわけではない。だが、自分はやってきたという自信が苦しい場面で選手を支える。

発揮できる力は心の持ちようで変わる―――。宇田はそれを実感している。

邱コーチの真価は分析力にもある。

同行しない大会も宇田や対戦相手の映像を見て、電話やボイスメッセージで助言を送る。宇田はそれを何度も聞き、頭に叩き込む。

「アドバイスのポイントが明確だから理解しやすく、実行しやすい。特にベンチに入ってくれるときは迷わず勝負できます」

ブラジルでは、もう一つ負けられない戦いがあった。3回戦で対戦した篠塚だ。2人は世界ランクの日本人順位を僅差で争っている。

「はるばるブラジルまで行って、日本人選手と当たるのは正直、嫌です。でも、篠塚とはランク争いが激しいので、何がなんでも勝って、自分はベスト4に入るという頭で戦いました」

左利きへの対応は、宇田が以前から自覚する課題だった。

この日は、今年1月の全日本選手権で敗れている左利きの篠塚に対し、準備してきた戦術を遂行してストレート勝ち。

ベスト4まで勝ち進んだ結果、宇田は世界ランクを26位から23位に上げ、篠塚は23位から24位へ後退。6〜7月に行われたWTT USスマッシュでは篠塚が宇田を抜いたが、宇田が再び抜き返した。

しかし、その差はわずか15ポイントにすぎない。

宇田が躍起になる理由は、10月のアジア選手権タシケント大会への出場を目指しているからだ。

男子日本代表の最大出場枠は5枠。

すでに、全日本選手権優勝の松島輝空(個人/世界ランク3位)と、5月の国内選考会で優勝した田中佑汰(ファースト/世界ランク99位)が代表に内定し、世界ランクによる残りの枠をめぐって宇田と篠塚が競り合っている。

他には、世界ランク5位の張本智和(トヨタ自動車)と世界ランク14位の戸上隼輔(井村屋グループ)の選出が濃厚だ。

8月4日開幕のWTTチャンピオンズ横浜は、代表争いの行方を左右する重要な一戦になる可能性が高い。しかも、宇田の1回戦の相手は奇しくも、篠塚。

「プレッシャーは、めちゃくちゃあります。でも、自分はプレッシャーがある方が力を発揮できるタイプ。ハングリーさがある方が爆発力もあると思っています」

そう言い切る一方で、胸の内には相反する感情が渦巻く。

「代表争いは何度経験しても苦しい。『やってやるぞ』という気持ちと『ほんと、きつい。いつまでやるんだろう』という気持ちが、頭の中をぐるぐるします。でも、現役生活には必ず終わりが来るし、代表争いは今しかできない。今、この立場にいられることをポジティブに捉えようと、きつくなったときは自分に発破をかけてます」

かつては腰や肩の故障を繰り返し辛い時期を過ごしたが、体づくりを見直し、入念なケアも欠かさない今、コンディションは万全だ。
ただし、試合前ともなればプレッシャーから眠れない夜もある。

8月6日、宇田は25歳になる。

目下、最大の目標はアジア選手権タシケント大会の代表権を確保すること。同大会は世界卓球2027アスタナ(個人戦)のアジア大陸予選会も兼ねており、世界卓球へとつながっている。

「世界卓球に出たいですね。WTTチャンピオンズにも出場し続けたい。ロサンゼルスオリンピックのことをよく聞かれますけど、オリンピックは、その前の一つ一つの積み重ねの先にあるだけ。今は自分の最大値を常に求めていくことを大事にしています」
(That last point just wouldn't go away.

On July 26, 2026, in the WTT Star Contender San José dos Campos men's singles semi-final held in Brazil,

Uda Yukiya (Kyowa Kirin/World Rank 23) pushed Brazil's ace, Calderano (World Rank 8), silver medalist at the 2025 World Table Tennis Championships in Doha, to the brink of defeat.

Uda had faced Calderano four times before, but had yet to secure a victory.

In the fourth game, with Uda leading 2-1, he had the first match point. However, he couldn't capitalize on the opportunity, ultimately missing five match points and losing the game 19-21.

Meanwhile, Calderano seized the momentum and won the final game to secure a come-from-behind victory. Uda's impressive run ended in the semi-finals.

"From the fourth game to the end, the match unfolded in a similar way, so I wanted to add another twist. I especially should have changed my approach starting with my serve."

Uda reflected on the turning point of the match.

Changing tactics during a back-and-forth battle requires courage. Even a slight misjudgment can instantly shatter the balance that had been maintained until then.

On this day, short serves to Calderano's forehand were effective. Uda hesitated to change his serve.

"I had a feeling that I was gradually losing points. Knowing when to change tactics in such situations is my challenge."

Moreover, all five match points came on returns. The lack of opportunities to change the situation from his own serve made the decision difficult. Nevertheless, this defeat showed Uda's undeniable growth.

Giving the powerful Calderano even a little leeway would result in a devastating blow. Therefore, Uda focused on pushing Calderano back from the table and drawing him into rallies, his specialty.

The increased variety in his short serves has made his long serves more effective at crucial moments. There were even instances where he scored service aces with a single straight serve.

Previously, Uda tended to focus on his own preferred style of play, but now he can play in a way that throws his opponent off guard, and even intentionally let his opponent hit the ball to set up a counter-attack.

"Recently, I've become able to play more calmly, and I feel like I can change my playing style depending on the opponent. My tactical range and technical skills have improved, so I can attack with more confidence."

The person who brought about this change is Coach Qiu Jianxin, whom he began to study under seriously around the spring of 2025.

He is a renowned coach who has guided top players such as Mizutani Jun (Kinoshita Group) and Ishikawa Kasumi (Zennoh) to Olympic and World Championship medals.

Although Uda's time in Japan is limited due to his international tournament travels, he makes every effort to travel from Tokyo to Osaka to train at Coach Qiu's practice facility.

Coach Qiu's training regimen is relentless. The intervals between drills are short, only a few seconds, "just enough time to drink water," says Uda.

Even the balls hit during footwork drills are counter-attacks. Blocking is not an option.

"I wonder how many balls I'll hit. It's really tough," Uda says with a wry smile, but his eyes light up as he adds, "When I'm really into training, I remember the hunger I had as a junior player, when I was completely absorbed in the game. It makes me feel young again."

Coach Qiu repeatedly says one thing:

"It's about whether you can think, even for a moment during a match, 'I've done such tough training,'"

Technical skills don't suddenly improve on match day. But the confidence that comes from having trained hard supports the player in difficult situations.

The power you can unleash depends on your mindset—Uda is realizing this.

Coach Qiu's true value also lies in his analytical skills.

Even when he doesn't accompany Uda to tournaments, he watches videos of Uda and his opponents, and sends advice via phone or voice message. Uda listens to it repeatedly, internalizing it.

"The advice is clear and easy to understand and implement. Especially when he's on the bench, I can play without hesitation."


In Brazil, there was another crucial match he couldn't afford to lose: against Shinozuka in the third round. The two are neck and neck in the world rankings for Japanese players.

"Honestly, I didn't like going all the way to Brazil to face a Japanese player. But the ranking competition with Shinozuka is fierce, so I went into the match determined to win no matter what and reach the semi-finals."

Dealing with left-handed opponents was something Uda had long been aware of as a challenge.

On this day, against the left-handed Shinozuka, whom he had lost to at the All-Japan Championships in January, he executed his prepared tactics and won in straight sets.

As a result of advancing to the semi-finals, Uda's world ranking rose from 26th to 23rd, while Shinozuka's dropped from 23rd to 24th. In the WTT US Smash tournament held in June-July, Shinozuka overtook Uda, but Uda regained the lead.

However, the difference is only 15 points.

Uda's motivation stems from his goal of competing in the Asian Championships in Tashkent in October.

The maximum number of spots for the Japanese men's national team is five.

Matsushima Sora (Individual/world rank 3), winner of the All-Japan Championships, and Tanaka Yuta (First/world rank 99), winner of the domestic selection tournament in May, have already secured their places on the team. Uda and Shinozuka are now competing for the remaining spots based on world rankings.

Other strong contenders include world rank 5 Harimoto Tomokazu (Toyota Motor Corporation) and world rank 14 Togami Shunsuke (Imuraya Group).

The WTT Champions Yokohama tournament, starting on August 4th, is likely to be a crucial match that will determine the outcome of the national team selection. Moreover, Uda's first-round opponent is, coincidentally, Shinozuka.

"The pressure is immense. But I'm the type of person who performs better under pressure. I believe that hunger gives me explosive power."

While he says this with conviction, conflicting emotions swirl within him.

"No matter how many times I experience it, the competition for a spot on the national team is tough. The feeling of 'I'm going to do it!' and the feeling of 'This is really tough. How long will this last?' swirl around in my head. But every playing career has to end, and the competition for a spot on the national team is something I can only do now. I try to view being in this position positively, and when things get tough, I motivate myself."

He once suffered through difficult times due to repeated back and shoulder injuries, but now, after reviewing his physical training and taking meticulous care, his condition is perfect.

However, before matches, there are nights when the pressure keeps him awake.

On August 6th, Uda will turn 25.

Currently, his biggest goal is to secure a spot on the national team for the Asian Championships in Tashkent. This tournament also serves as the Asian continental qualifying round for the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships in Astana (individual events), thus leading to the World Championships.

"I want to compete in the World Table Tennis Championships. I also want to continue participating in the WTT Champions. People often ask me about the Los Angeles Olympics, but the Olympics are just the culmination of all the hard work and preparation leading up to them. Right now, I'm focused on constantly striving to reach my personal best.")
 
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https://www.tabletennisdaily.com/forum/topics/wtt-star-contender-são-josé-dos-campos-2026-july-21-26.39640/post-583190

TAKAGI Mina's write-up on Uda's match with Calderano at WTT SCT São José dos Campos 2026 and his recent progress.

宇田幸矢 熾烈な代表争いの現在地「苦しい。でも、今しかできない」
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/tabletennis/news/2026/08/042278.html

(That last point just wouldn't go away.

On July 26, 2026, in the WTT Star Contender San José dos Campos men's singles semi-final held in Brazil,

Uda Yukiya (Kyowa Kirin/World Rank 23) pushed Brazil's ace, Calderano (World Rank 8), silver medalist at the 2025 World Table Tennis Championships in Doha, to the brink of defeat.

Uda had faced Calderano four times before, but had yet to secure a victory.

In the fourth game, with Uda leading 2-1, he had the first match point. However, he couldn't capitalize on the opportunity, ultimately missing five match points and losing the game 19-21.

Meanwhile, Calderano seized the momentum and won the final game to secure a come-from-behind victory. Uda's impressive run ended in the semi-finals.

"From the fourth game to the end, the match unfolded in a similar way, so I wanted to add another twist. I especially should have changed my approach starting with my serve."

Uda reflected on the turning point of the match.

Changing tactics during a back-and-forth battle requires courage. Even a slight misjudgment can instantly shatter the balance that had been maintained until then.

On this day, short serves to Calderano's forehand were effective. Uda hesitated to change his serve.

"I had a feeling that I was gradually losing points. Knowing when to change tactics in such situations is my challenge."

Moreover, all five match points came on returns. The lack of opportunities to change the situation from his own serve made the decision difficult. Nevertheless, this defeat showed Uda's undeniable growth.

Giving the powerful Calderano even a little leeway would result in a devastating blow. Therefore, Uda focused on pushing Calderano back from the table and drawing him into rallies, his specialty.

The increased variety in his short serves has made his long serves more effective at crucial moments. There were even instances where he scored service aces with a single straight serve.

Previously, Uda tended to focus on his own preferred style of play, but now he can play in a way that throws his opponent off guard, and even intentionally let his opponent hit the ball to set up a counter-attack.

"Recently, I've become able to play more calmly, and I feel like I can change my playing style depending on the opponent. My tactical range and technical skills have improved, so I can attack with more confidence."

The person who brought about this change is Coach Qiu Jianxin, whom he began to study under seriously around the spring of 2025.

He is a renowned coach who has guided top players such as Mizutani Jun (Kinoshita Group) and Ishikawa Kasumi (Zennoh) to Olympic and World Championship medals.

Although Uda's time in Japan is limited due to his international tournament travels, he makes every effort to travel from Tokyo to Osaka to train at Coach Qiu's practice facility.

Coach Qiu's training regimen is relentless. The intervals between drills are short, only a few seconds, "just enough time to drink water," says Uda.

Even the balls hit during footwork drills are counter-attacks. Blocking is not an option.

"I wonder how many balls I'll hit. It's really tough," Uda says with a wry smile, but his eyes light up as he adds, "When I'm really into training, I remember the hunger I had as a junior player, when I was completely absorbed in the game. It makes me feel young again."

Coach Qiu repeatedly says one thing:

"It's about whether you can think, even for a moment during a match, 'I've done such tough training,'"

Technical skills don't suddenly improve on match day. But the confidence that comes from having trained hard supports the player in difficult situations.

The power you can unleash depends on your mindset—Uda is realizing this.

Coach Qiu's true value also lies in his analytical skills.

Even when he doesn't accompany Uda to tournaments, he watches videos of Uda and his opponents, and sends advice via phone or voice message. Uda listens to it repeatedly, internalizing it.

"The advice is clear and easy to understand and implement. Especially when he's on the bench, I can play without hesitation."


In Brazil, there was another crucial match he couldn't afford to lose: against Shinozuka in the third round. The two are neck and neck in the world rankings for Japanese players.

"Honestly, I didn't like going all the way to Brazil to face a Japanese player. But the ranking competition with Shinozuka is fierce, so I went into the match determined to win no matter what and reach the semi-finals."

Dealing with left-handed opponents was something Uda had long been aware of as a challenge.

On this day, against the left-handed Shinozuka, whom he had lost to at the All-Japan Championships in January, he executed his prepared tactics and won in straight sets.

As a result of advancing to the semi-finals, Uda's world ranking rose from 26th to 23rd, while Shinozuka's dropped from 23rd to 24th. In the WTT US Smash tournament held in June-July, Shinozuka overtook Uda, but Uda regained the lead.

However, the difference is only 15 points.

Uda's motivation stems from his goal of competing in the Asian Championships in Tashkent in October.

The maximum number of spots for the Japanese men's national team is five.

Matsushima Sora (Individual/world rank 3), winner of the All-Japan Championships, and Tanaka Yuta (First/world rank 99), winner of the domestic selection tournament in May, have already secured their places on the team. Uda and Shinozuka are now competing for the remaining spots based on world rankings.

Other strong contenders include world rank 5 Harimoto Tomokazu (Toyota Motor Corporation) and world rank 14 Togami Shunsuke (Imuraya Group).

The WTT Champions Yokohama tournament, starting on August 4th, is likely to be a crucial match that will determine the outcome of the national team selection. Moreover, Uda's first-round opponent is, coincidentally, Shinozuka.

"The pressure is immense. But I'm the type of person who performs better under pressure. I believe that hunger gives me explosive power."

While he says this with conviction, conflicting emotions swirl within him.

"No matter how many times I experience it, the competition for a spot on the national team is tough. The feeling of 'I'm going to do it!' and the feeling of 'This is really tough. How long will this last?' swirl around in my head. But every playing career has to end, and the competition for a spot on the national team is something I can only do now. I try to view being in this position positively, and when things get tough, I motivate myself."

He once suffered through difficult times due to repeated back and shoulder injuries, but now, after reviewing his physical training and taking meticulous care, his condition is perfect.

However, before matches, there are nights when the pressure keeps him awake.

On August 6th, Uda will turn 25.

Currently, his biggest goal is to secure a spot on the national team for the Asian Championships in Tashkent. This tournament also serves as the Asian continental qualifying round for the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships in Astana (individual events), thus leading to the World Championships.

"I want to compete in the World Table Tennis Championships. I also want to continue participating in the WTT Champions. People often ask me about the Los Angeles Olympics, but the Olympics are just the culmination of all the hard work and preparation leading up to them. Right now, I'm focused on constantly striving to reach my personal best.")
Uda: @zeio anointed me! How could I lose?
Shinozuka: As @NextLevel said, we need to see more...
 
says Shoo...nothing to see here. - zeio
says Shoo...nothing to see here. - zeio
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I hate to repeat myself. As I've spelled out before, this thread was rudderless while waiting for JTTA to announce the LA28 selection system, something that KONNO Noboru of Table Tennis Kingdom has also accused of JTTA on multiple occasion. If that's how you feel about this thread, then that's probably what's going on with JNT.
Both Uda and Shinozuka criticize the unclear selection deadline for ATTC 2026 due in large part to a selection system that is at the mercy of external factors and in this case, ATTU.

【卓球】異例事態に選手苦言…10月アジア選手権の世界ランク対象期限が不透明「納得いかない」
https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/202608040001158.html
 アジア選手権(10月19~25日、ウズベキスタン)まで2カ月半となった中、選考対象となる世界ランキングの期限が不透明となっており、選手から苦言が出ている。

 男子シングルス1回戦で世界ランク24位の篠塚大登(東都観光バス)が3-2で同23位の宇田幸矢(協和キリン)に勝利。世界ランクで宇田を上回ることが有力となったが、アジア選手権の選考対象となるかは不明で「ここまで決まっていないのは初めて。難しい状況」ともらした。

 アジア選手権の男子代表は最大5枠。すでに松島輝空、田中佑汰が内定しており、残り3枠は世界ランク上位3人が選出される。張本智和、戸上隼輔の代表入りは確実となっており、ラスト1枠を宇田と篠塚が争っているが、大会を主催するアジア卓球連合(ATTU)が大会要項を発表しておらず、選考対象期限は未確定のまま。日本協会は早期発表を要望しているものの、未発表の状況が続いている。

 敗れた宇田は「期間があっての選考であってほしい。振り回されているとみんな思っている。正直、納得いかないところもある」と苦言を呈した。
(With just two and a half months until the Asian Championships (October 19-25, Uzbekistan), the deadline for world rankings, which are used for selection, remains unclear, drawing criticism from players.

In the first round of the men's singles, Shinozuka Hiroto (Tohto Kanko Bus), ranked 24th in the world, defeated Uda Yukiya (Kyowa Kirin), ranked 23rd, 3-2. While this makes him likely to surpass Uda in world rankings, it's unclear whether he will be eligible for selection to the Asian Championships. Shinozuka commented, "This is the first time it's been this undecided. It's a difficult situation."

The Asian Championships will have a maximum of five spots for the men's team. Matsushima Sora and Tanaka Yuta have already been selected, leaving three spots to be filled by the top three players in the world rankings. Harimoto Tomokazu and Togami Shunsuke are almost certain to make the team, leaving Uda and Shinozuka competing for the last spot. However, the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU), the tournament organizer, has not yet announced the tournament regulations, leaving the selection deadline uncertain. Although the Japan Association has requested an early announcement, the situation remains unresolved.

Uda, who was defeated, criticized the process, saying, "I wish there was a proper timeframe for the selection. Everyone feels like they're being strung along. To be honest, there are some things I'm not happy about.")

「正直、分からない中での選考」 当落線上の24歳が漏らした複雑胸中、卓球アジア選手権&世界選手権代表争い
https://the-ans.jp/news/712009/
WTTチャンピオンズ横浜

 卓球のワールドテーブルテニス(WTT)チャンピオンズ横浜大会は4日、横浜BUNTAIで開幕した。男子シングルス1回戦で、世界ランク23位の宇田幸矢(協和キリン)が同24位の篠塚大登(東都観光バス)に2-3のフルゲームで敗れた。試合後は、来年の世界選手権出場にもつながる10月19日~25日のアジア選手権(ウズベキスタン)の代表選考を巡り、世界ランキングの確定日が不透明な状況に「複雑です」と胸中を明かした。

 アジア選手権の代表5枠目を争う相手との一戦だった。フルゲームの激闘の末、宇田はがっくりと両膝に手に付いた。第5ゲーム。0-4から9-9まで粘った。だが、最後は力尽きた。「すごく難しい試合だった」。これで今大会後の世界ランキングで、篠塚に上回られる見込みとなった。

 実は27年世界選手権カザフスタン大会の出場を巡っても、大きな意味を持つかもしれない一戦だった。一方で、選考基準となる世界ランキングの確定時期が不透明なため、代表争いにほとんど影響しない可能性も残されている。当落線上にいる宇田は、複雑な胸中を明かした。

「まだ何も分かっていない。正直、分からない中での選考。ちょっと複雑な気持ち」

 あらかじめ記しておくと、日本卓球協会に全面的な非があるわけではない。

 どういうことか――。アジア選手権(ウズベキスタン)の選考要綱は、「アジア選手権最終エントリー日14日前が含まれる週の世界ランキング日本人上位3選手」と記載されている。

 ただアジア選手権を主催するアジア卓球連合(ATTU)は、いつが最終エントリー日なのか、明らかにしていない。つまり「アジア選手権最終エントリー日14日前が含まれる週」の“運命の日”が、不透明な状態にある。

 例年の流れで考えれば、今大会、あるいは7月下旬の「WTTスターコンテンダー・サンジョゼ・ドス・カンポス(ブラジル)」終了時点の世界ランキングになる可能性がある。ただ、いずれにしてもATTUから確定的な情報は届いていない。

 どの時点の世界ランキングが選考対象となるのかは不明。分からない運命の日に、宇田は「複雑というか。もし、(7月下旬の)ブラジルまでだったら……というのはありますけど……(いずれにしても)それってどうなんだろうっていうのは」と話した。

 アジア選手権の出場は世界選手権の出場にも直結する。選考要項には「アジア選手権に出場選手の中でアジア選手権にて世界選手権の出場枠を獲得した選手」と定められている。そのため、アジア選手権の出場は、世界選手権に向けても大きな意味を持つ。

 その上で、24歳の宇田は「どんな状況にしろ、自分の実力不足」と受け止めた。多彩なサーブを繰り出す篠塚に競り負けた。勝利した篠塚も「いつもはどこまでと分かってて戦っている。ここまで決まっていないのは初めてだと思う。難しい状況ではある」と言った。
(WTT Champions Yokohama

The World Table Tennis (WTT) Champions Yokohama tournament opened on the 4th at Yokohama BUNTAI. In the first round of the men's singles, world No. 23 Uda Yukiya (Kyowa Kirin) lost to world No. 24 Shinozuka Hiroto (Toto Kanko Bus) in a full game, 2-3. After the match, Uda expressed his feelings about the uncertain situation regarding the finalization of world rankings, which will determine the selection for the Asian Championships (Uzbekistan) from October 19th to 25th, a tournament that could lead to participation in next year's World Championships. He said, "It's complicated."

This was a match against an opponent vying for the fifth spot on the Asian Championships team. After a hard-fought full-game battle, Uda collapsed to his knees. In the fifth game, he fought back from 0-4 to 9-9. But in the end, he ran out of steam. "It was a very difficult match." This means that Shinozuka is likely to surpass Uda in the world rankings after this tournament.

In fact, this match could hold significant meaning regarding participation in the 2027 World Championships in Kazakhstan. On the other hand, because the timing of the finalization of the world rankings, which are the selection criteria, remains unclear, there's still a possibility that it won't have much impact on the selection process. Uda, who is on the bubble, revealed his complex feelings.

"I still don't know anything. Honestly, the selection is being made without knowing anything. It's a bit of a complicated feeling."

It should be noted beforehand that the Japan Table Tennis Association is not entirely to blame.

What does this mean? The selection criteria for the Asian Championships (Uzbekistan) state that the top 3 Japanese players in the world rankings for the week including 14 days before the final entry date for the Asian Championships will be selected.

However, the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU), which organizes the Asian Championships, has not clarified when the final entry date is. In other words, the "fateful day" of the week including 14 days before the final entry date for the Asian Championships remains uncertain.

Based on past trends, the world rankings used for selection could be those at the end of this tournament, or after the "WTT Star Contender São José dos Campos (Brazil)" in late July. However, no definitive information has been received from the ATTU.

It remains unclear which world ranking will be used for selection. On this uncertain day, Uda commented, "It's complicated. If it's up to Brazil (late July)... that's one thing... but (either way) I wonder how that will turn out."

Participation in the Asian Championships directly leads to participation in the World Championships. The selection criteria state, "Among the players participating in the Asian Championships, those who have secured a spot in the World Championships at the Asian Championships." Therefore, participation in the Asian Championships is of great significance for those aiming for the World Championships.

Despite all this, the 24-year-old Uda accepted the situation as "a reflection of my own lack of ability." He lost to Shinotsuka, who unleashed a variety of serves. Even the victorious Shinotsuka said, "Usually, I fight knowing how far I'm going to go. I think this is the first time it's been this uncertain. It's a difficult situation.")

【卓球】宇田幸矢がライバル篠塚大登に2―3で敗れ1回戦で姿消す アジア選手権代表選考の期限が不透明で「ちょっと振り回されている」 WTTチャンピオンズ
https://hochi.news/articles/20260804-OHT1T51216.html?page=1
 2―2で迎えた第5セット(S)は、篠塚にスタートから4連続ポイントを奪われ劣勢に。それでも、諦めず攻め続け、一時は同点に追いついた。最後は力尽きたが、大激戦に会場も大いに沸いた。宇田は「負けたのは悔しいですが、自分の成長に必ずつながっているので。選手としては苦しいですけど…。お互い、いい刺激になのかな」と淡々と話した。

 「苦しい」と話すのには理由がある。宇田は28年ロサンゼルス五輪を占う意味でも重要な大会となる27年の世界選手権(個人、カザフスタン)代表も兼ねた10月のアジア選手権(ウズベキスタン)代表入りを目指しているが、アジア卓球連合(ATTU)が、代表争いの期限を発表しておらず、選考の期限がいまだ決まっていないのが現状だ。

...

 2人の世界ランクの差は「1」。7月25日のWTTスターコンテンダーサン・ジョゼ・ドス・カンポス3回戦での直接対決は、3―0で勝利し、同ランクを逆転していた。そこまでが期限なら宇田だったが、今大会で篠塚が勝ち上がり上位に入れば再びランクは逆転されることが濃厚。どの大会で決まるかは不透明で、今大会が代表争いの行方を左右する重要な一戦になる可能もあり、選手の思いは複雑だ。宇田は「(選考期限は)まだ何も分かっていないので。ちょっと振り回されてしまっているのかな。ルールって言うのはしょうがないですし…。まだ分からないですけど、そこで代表をつかめなかったら、それはやっぱり自分の実力不足もあるので」とやりきれない思いを吐露した。
(In the fifth set (S), with the score tied at 2-2, Uda fell behind after losing four consecutive points to Shinozuka from the start. However, he didn't give up and continued to attack, even managing to tie the score at one point. Ultimately, he ran out of steam, but the intense battle thrilled the crowd. Uda calmly stated, "I'm disappointed to have lost, but it will definitely contribute to my growth. It's tough as a player, but... I think it's good motivation for both of us."

There's a reason he said it was "tough." Uda is aiming to represent Japan at the Asian Championships in October (Uzbekistan), which will also serve as a representative for the 2027 World Championships (individual, Kazakhstan), an important tournament for predicting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU) has not yet announced the deadline for selection, and the selection deadline remains undecided.

...

The difference in their world rankings is "1". In their direct confrontation in the third round of the WTT Star Contender San José dos Campos on July 25th, Uda won 3-0, reversing the rankings. If that had been the deadline, Uda would have been in the lead, but if Shinozuka advances in this tournament and finishes high, the rankings will likely be reversed again. It is unclear which tournament will decide the selection, and this tournament could be a crucial match that will determine the outcome of the selection race, so the players have mixed feelings. Uda expressed his frustration, saying, "We don't know anything yet (about the selection deadline). I feel like we're being tossed around a bit. There's nothing we can do about the rules... I don't know yet, but if I can't secure a spot on the team then, it will be because of my own lack of ability.")

【卓球】「振り回されている」異例事態に選手苦言…選考期限が不透明のままアジア選手権切符争う
https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/202608040000910.html
 10月19日開幕のアジア選手権(ウズベキスタン)まで約2カ月半となった中、選考の対象期限がいまだ不透明であることについて、選手から苦言の声が出ている。

 日本勢対決となった1回戦は、世界ランキング24位の篠塚大登(東都観光バス)が3-2で同23位の宇田幸矢(協和キリン)に勝利。敗れた宇田は「(期限が)分からない中での選考なので、あまり良くないと思います」ともらした。

 アジア選手権の男子日本代表は最大5枠。出場権を得れば、27年世界選手権の切符獲得の可能性が高まる。

 1月の全日本選手権優勝の松島輝空、5月の国内選考会優勝の田中佑汰は代表に内定しており、残り3枠は「最終エントリー日14日前が含まれる週の世界ランキング日本人上位3選手」で争っている。現状では5位の張本智和、14位の戸上隼輔の代表入りが確実。ラスト1枠を23位の宇田、24位の篠塚が競り合っており、今大会前でその差はわずか15点となっている。

 ただ、アジア選手権の主催者にあたるアジア卓球連合(ATTU)が大会要項を発表しておらず、選考対象の期限も未確定。そのため、選手は今大会が選考対象となっているかすら分からず、困惑しているのだ。



 宇田は「権利をつかめなかったら、どんな状況でも自分の実力不足」としつつ、「やっぱり期間があっての選考であってほしい。振り回されている面があると、みんな思っている。ちょっと複雑な気持ちがある。正直、納得いかないところではある」と苦言を呈した。日本協会を通じて、早期の要項発表を要求しているというが、いまだ進展はない。アジア選手権の出場がかなわなくても、来年の世界選手権の切符をつかむ道はあるが「何回も確認していますけど、分からないです」と神妙な面持ちで口にした。

 勝利した篠塚は、世界ランキングで宇田を上回ることが有力。勝ち進めばさらに差をつけることになるが「期限はもしかしたら(前週の)ブラジル(の大会)かもしれないですし、今大会かもしれないですし。お互い意識していた面はあったと思う。それを考えることで緊張も生まれていた」と胸中を明かした。選考期限が不透明なまま国際大会を転戦する経験については「初めて」と告白。「これだけ決まっていないのも初めてじゃないですかね。いつもはどこまでか分かっているので。難しい状況ではあると思います」と吐露した。

 日本協会によれば、アジア選手権を主催するATTUに対して早期の要項発表を要望しているものの、未発表の事態が続いているという。協会関係者も「ずさんな対応だと思います」ともらしている。
(With approximately two and a half months until the Asian Championships (Uzbekistan) begin on October 19th, players are expressing dissatisfaction with the still unclear selection deadline.

In the first round, an all-Japanese match, Shinozuka Hiroto (Tohto Kanko Bus), ranked 24th in the world, defeated Uda Yukiya (Kyowa Kirin), ranked 23rd, 3-2. Uda, who lost, commented, "I don't think it's good that the selection process is being conducted without knowing the deadline."

The Asian Championships will award a maximum of five spots to the Japanese men's team. Qualifying for the Asian Championships would significantly increase their chances of securing a place in the 2027 World Championships.

Matsushima Sora, winner of the All-Japan Championships in January, and Tanaka Yuta, winner of the domestic selection tournament in May, have already been selected for the team. The remaining three spots are being contested by the top three Japanese players in the world rankings for the week including 14 days before the final entry date. Currently, Tomokazu Harimoto (ranked 5th) and Shunsuke Togami (ranked 14th) are considered certain to make the team. The last remaining spot is being contested by 23rd-ranked Uda and 24th-ranked Shinozuka, with a difference of only 15 points before this tournament.

However, the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU), the organizer of the Asian Championships, has not yet announced the tournament regulations, and the deadline for selection is still undetermined. Therefore, the players are confused, not even knowing if this tournament counts towards their selection.

Uda stated, "If I don't secure the right, it will be due to my own lack of ability, regardless of the circumstances," but added, "I really wish there was a timeframe for selection. Everyone feels like we're being tossed around. It's a bit complicated. To be honest, I'm not happy about it." He said he has requested an early announcement of the regulations through the Japan Table Tennis Association, but there has been no progress yet. Even if he doesn't qualify for the Asian Championships, there is still a way to secure a spot in next year's World Championships, but he said with a serious expression, "I've checked many times, but I still don't know."

Shinozuka, who won the tournament, is likely to surpass Uda in the world rankings. While advancing further would widen the gap, he revealed his feelings, saying, "The deadline might have been the Brazil tournament (last week), or it might have been this tournament. I think we were both aware of each other. Thinking about that created tension." He confessed that this was his first time competing in international tournaments with an unclear selection deadline. "I think this is the first time it's been this uncertain. Usually, we know how far along the selection process is. It's a difficult situation," he confided.

According to the Japan Association, they have requested that the ATTU, which organizes the Asian Championships, announce the guidelines as soon as possible, but the announcement remains unsent. An association official also commented, "I think this is a sloppy response.")
 
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宇田幸矢との激闘制し2回戦進出の篠塚大登 ブラジルでの黒星から一転「もうやるしかない」<卓球・WTTチャンピオンズ横浜2026>
https://rallys.online/topic/international/260804wttchampionsyokohama-shinozuka/
試合後、篠塚が報道陣の囲み取材に答えた。

── 試合お疲れ様でした。振り返ってみていかがですか?

篠塚:最後は特に相手が攻めて自分がボールを取るというような感じだったというふうに見えたと思うんですけど、その中でも自分も上から負けないように打ち返すという意識できていたので、しっかり返す、思い切りが本当に最後良かったなと思います。

── 最後はかなり競った展開でしたが、どんなことを考えながらプレーしてましたか?

篠塚:やることは結構決まっていたので、その中でもどれだけ攻めれるかっていうことが重要になってくると思って、ミスしてもいいからやってやるぞという気持ちでやれました。

── 今日の試合で自分の中で良かった部分とか手応えになった部分とか何かありますか?

篠塚:一番練習してきたサービスが効かなかった部分もあったんですけど、その中でも作戦変更して、高い得点率のサービスを多めに使ったところは、あのゲームの中でできて成長した部分かなと思います。

── 改めて今大会の目標や、意気込みはいかがですか?

篠塚:まずは宇田選手に勝つことが目標だったので、この辺りも自分も全部出し切って、できるだけ上に上がれるように頑張りたいと思います。

── 最後、本当に極限の場面で勝ち切れたことは、今後どうつながってくると思いますか?

篠塚:今後自分が世界卓球、オリンピックとかでメダルが取りたいってなったとしたら、メダル決定戦も必ずこういう試合が来ると思うので、こういった試合を勝ち切れたっていう、そういったところの自信に繋がると思います。

── ブラジル(WTTスターコンテンダーサン・ジョゼ・ドス・カンポス)が終わって、(今回)対宇田選手に僅差ですけど勝利しました。どんな準備や気持ちでこの試合を迎えましたか?

篠塚:ブラジルでやった時は(ゲームカウント)0-3で負けてしまって。自分もいい調子でブラジルに入ったつもりではいたので、(ゲームカウント)0-3で負けて自信を結構なくしましたし、宇田選手と試合するのがちょっと怖かった部分もあります。

── 先ほどサービスの準備を大事にしてきたという話がありましたが?

篠塚:前回はチキータに対して苦戦していたので、どうにかしてサービスで崩せないかと思って練習してきましたし、もしこのサービスが効かなかったら違うサービスで勝負しようと思って何種類も準備してきました。

── 第5ゲームの迫られたところで、結構ラリーで耐えてた時間があったと思いますが、振り返ってみていかがですか?

篠塚:相手も競った中で思いっきり攻めてきたんですけど、それを全部守りになってしまっては嫌だなと思ったので、自分もできるだけ打ち返せるように上から上からという意識を持ってやってました。

── 9-9から最後フォアハンドで(10点目を)決めようとしていたのは作戦ですか?

篠塚:あまり覚えてないですね。でもまずはバックで上からやって、相手がフォアで来るのをできるだけ打ち返して詰めようっていう考えだったので、そこでチャンスボールが回ってきて、自分も少し時間ができたので、そこを狙った感じだと思います。

── アメリカ(USスマッシュ)で準々決勝まで行って、すごくいい形で入ってきたと思いますが、今の状態いかがですか?

篠塚:(USスマッシュでは)右の選手に勝ったりして自信になった部分もあったんですけど、ブラジルの試合で宇田さんに負けた時に、左に対しての試合の仕方がちょっとわからなくなってしまった部分もあったので、逆にそのわからなくなった部分がもうやるしかないと思ってできた部分でもあるので、そこは逆に良かったかなと思ってます。

── (選考)ポイントの加算がいつまでかわからないということですが、篠塚選手は過去にそういう経験がありますか?

篠塚:こういった世界ランキングを争ったことは初めてです。これだけ決まってないのも初めてなんじゃないですかね。いつも多分みんなどこまでってわかっててやってると思うので、難しい状況だと思います。

── 3ゲーム目が勝負分けたのかなと思いますが、タイムアウト明けからの展開はどういう作戦を考えてましたか?

篠塚:相手の逆を取ってバックロングだったり、バック側にサービス出そうという考えも少しあったんですけど、それをやって自分が攻めれるか考えた時にそんなことはなかったので、もうフォア前に出して、相手のチキータが来るのを待って狙ってラリーにしようと思ったので、もう(狙いを)絞ったのが良かったと思います。
(After the match, Shinozuka answered questions from the press.

──Congratulations on the match. Looking back, what are your thoughts?

Shinozuka: I think it looked like my opponent was attacking and I was trying to take the ball, especially towards the end. But even then, I was conscious of hitting back from above so I wouldn't lose, and I think my ability to return the ball firmly and with determination at the end was really good.

──The end was very close. What were you thinking about while you were playing?

Shinozuka: I had a pretty clear plan of what I needed to do, so I thought the important thing was how much I could attack within that plan. I played with the mindset that it was okay to make mistakes, but I was going to give it my all.

──What aspects of today's match did you feel were particularly good or what gave you a sense of accomplishment?

Shinozuka: There were times when my serve, which I've practiced the most, wasn't effective, but I think I was able to change my strategy and use more serves with a high scoring rate during that game, which I think shows my growth.

──What are your goals and aspirations for this tournament?

Shinotsuka: First of all, my goal was to beat Uda, so I'll give it my all here and do my best to climb as high as possible.

──How do you think winning in such a crucial moment will benefit you in the future?

Shinotsuka: If I want to win a medal at the World Table Tennis Championships or the Olympics in the future, I think there will definitely be matches like this in the medal deciders, so winning a match like this will give me confidence.

──After Brazil (WTT Star Contender San José dos Campos), you won against Uda by a narrow margin. What kind of preparation and mindset did you have going into this match?

Shinotsuka: When we played in Brazil, I lost 0-3 (game count). I thought I was in good form going into Brazil, so losing 0-3 (game count) really took a toll on my confidence, and I was a little scared to play against Uda.

──Earlier you mentioned that you've been focusing on preparing your serve.

Shinotsuka: Last time, I struggled against the chiquita, so I've been practicing to see if I could somehow disrupt it with my serve. I also prepared several different serves, thinking that if one didn't work, I'd try a different one.

──In the fifth game, when you were close, there was a period where you held your ground in rallies. Looking back, what are your thoughts?

Shinotsuka: My opponent was attacking aggressively in a close match, but I didn't want to just play defensively, so I tried to return as many shots as possible, focusing on hitting from above.

──Was it a strategy to try to finish the 10th point with a forehand at 9-9?

Shinotsuka: I don't really remember. But my initial idea was to hit from above with my backhand, and try to return as many of my opponent's forehands as possible to close the gap. A chance ball came my way, and I had a little time, so I think I aimed for that.

──You made it to the quarterfinals of the US Smash tournament, which was a great start. How do you feel about your current performance?

Shinotsuka: (At the US Smash) I gained some confidence from beating right-handed players, but when I lost to Uda in Brazil, I realized I wasn't quite sure how to play against left-handed players. However, that uncertainty made me realize I just had to do my best, so I think that was actually a good thing.

──It's unclear how long the points will be added for the selection. Have you ever experienced something like this before?

Shinotsuka: This is the first time I've competed for a world ranking like this. I think it's also the first time it's been this uncertain. Usually, everyone probably knows how far they can go, so it's a difficult situation.

──I think the third game was the deciding factor. What strategy were you considering after the timeout?

Shinozuka: I did consider trying to catch my opponent off guard by hitting a backhand long serve or serving to their backhand side, but when I thought about whether I could attack effectively by doing that, I realized that wasn't the case. So I decided to just serve to their forehand side, wait for their chiquita to come, and then try to rally with that in mind. I think it was good that I narrowed my focus.)
 
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Same old problem for Togami, failing to keep a cool head when it mattered.

初戦敗退となった戸上隼輔 「次また強くなって日本でプレーできるように頑張りたい」<卓球・WTTチャンピオンズ横浜2026>
https://rallys.online/topic/international/260804wttchampionsyokohama-togamicomment/
試合後、戸上が報道陣の囲み取材に答えた。

戸上隼輔(井村屋グループ) コメント

── 試合お疲れ様でした。振り返ってみていかがですか?

戸上:1ゲーム目、すごいいい状態に入って先取したんですけど、そこから凡ミスと相手の技術力にはまってしまって、なんとか第4ゲーム取ったんですけど、第5ゲームでリードしていたにもかかわらず、逆転負けしてしまったので非常に悔しいです。

── 今日の試合の中で自身のプレーで良かったところと、相手が上回ってきたところというのはそれぞれどんな点ですか?

戸上:相手はサービスで徹底してきたりとか台上勝負という中で、自分がそこで負けてしまったのと、自分が焦って大事なところで簡単なミス、打ちミスだったりとか、安易なサービスを出してしまったりとか、そういうところが敗因かなと思ってます。

── 今回横浜ということで、結構日本のお客さんが入ってて、声援も大きかったなと思いますが、その辺はいかがでしたか?

戸上:やっぱり特別な空間だなと思いましたし、自分も楽しみながら試合をできたので、次また強くなって日本でプレーできるように頑張りたいなと思います。

── 9月にアジア競技大会がありますので、名古屋で日本の皆さんの前で試合があります。次こそはどんなプレーを見せたいですか?

戸上:アジア大会までにめちゃくちゃ試合がまだまだあるので、もっと実力だったりとか、今日の反省を生かして、まだまだチャンスはあると思っているので、そのチャンスを拾えるようにして、アジア大会でも金メダルをみんなチーム一丸で獲得できるように頑張りたいなと思います。

── 第1ゲームから最終ゲームまで、全体通して簡単に振り返りいただけますか?

戸上:自分のサービス、レシーブだったりとか、その配球がすごい良くて、自分の思うようなプレーが最後までできたんですけど、2ゲーム目以降、相手もサービス、レシーブを徹底して台上で勝負仕掛けてきたので、自分もそれに付き合うようにやってしまって、2ゲーム目、3ゲーム目連取されてしまって。

4ゲーム目はリードされていたんですけど、自分も気持ちの勝負だと思って、最後は攻撃を自分から仕掛ける気持ちを持って取り切って。5ゲーム目も序盤良かったんですけど、やっぱり大事な局面の4-2からちょっと気持ちが安易になってしまったというか。

1点欲しい気持ちが上回っちゃって、プレーが硬くなってしまったなという印象や感想を持ってしまったなと思ってます。

── 最終ゲームでロングサービスを使っていたのが相手に結構狙われたという場面もありましたが?

戸上:一本目に関しては悪くなかったかなと思うんですけど、二本目に関してはよくなかった選択だなと思ってるんで、やっぱりまだ戦術面で未熟だったなと思いますし、まだ落ち着いていたら(その)選択を取らなかったなと思うので、もっと状況を見てプレーできればよかったなと思ってます。

── 直近でデューダ選手と対戦したのがいつになりますか?

戸上:去年の11月のフランクフルトの初戦です。

── その時と今回で印象は違ってましたか?

戸上:違ってましたね。正直11月のフランクフルトの大会、(ゲームカウント)3-0で勝ったんですけど、その時の相手の覇気が正直なくて。いつものデューダ選手じゃないなという中で(ゲームカウント)3-0で勝ったので。

今回戦ってみて、やっぱりその時のデューダ選手と違いましたし、ラリーが思った以上に強かったなという印象です。

── 日本でやる国際大会の雰囲気、観戦もすごかったと思いますが、雰囲気はいかがでしたか?

戸上:やっぱり良かったなと。すごい日本らしいというか、日本らしい声援もたくさんあって、のびのびプレーはできたかなと思ってますね。
(After the match, Togami answered questions from the press.

Togami Shunsuke (Imuraya Group) - Comments

──Congratulations on the match. Looking back, what are your thoughts?

Togami: I started the first game really well and took the lead, but then I made some unforced errors and got caught out by my opponent's skill. I managed to win the fourth game, but despite leading in the fifth game, I was reversed and lost, which is very frustrating.

──What aspects of your play did you find good in today's match, and what aspects did your opponent surpass you in?

Togami: My opponent was very thorough with his serves and focused on table play, and I lost in that area. Also, I think the reason for my defeat was that I rushed and made simple mistakes at crucial moments, like mishits and easy serves.

──This match was held in Yokohama, and there were quite a few Japanese spectators, and the cheering was loud. What did you think of that?

Togami: I thought it was a special atmosphere, and I was able to enjoy the match, so I want to work hard to become stronger and be able to play in Japan again next time.

──The Asian Games are in September, and you'll be playing in Nagoya in front of the Japanese people. What kind of play do you want to show next time?

Togami: There are still a lot of matches before the Asian Games, so I think there are still plenty of opportunities to improve my skills and learn from today's mistakes. I want to seize those opportunities and work hard as a team to win a gold medal at the Asian Games.

──Could you briefly reflect on the match from the first game to the final game?

Togami: My serves, returns, and shot placement were really good, and I was able to play the way I wanted until the end. However, from the second game onwards, my opponent was also very aggressive with their serves and returns, and I ended up playing along with them, losing the second and third games.

In the fourth game, I was behind, but I thought it was a battle of wills, so I took the initiative and attacked, and managed to win the game. I started the fifth game well, but I think I became a little too complacent at the crucial 4:2.

I think my desire to win that point got the better of me, and my play became stiff.


── In the final game, there were moments where your opponent targeted your long serves.

Togami: I think the first one wasn't bad, but the second one was a bad choice. I think I'm still immature tactically, and if I had been calmer, I wouldn't have made that choice. I wish I had been able to observe the situation more carefully before playing.

── When was the last time you played against Duda?

Togami: It was in the first match of the Frankfurt tournament last November.

── Was your impression different then compared to this time?

Togami: Yes, it was different. To be honest, in the Frankfurt tournament in November, I won 3-0 (game count), but my opponent didn't seem to have much fighting spirit then. I won 3-0 (in games) against Duda, who I felt wasn't his usual self.

After playing against him this time, I realized he was definitely different from the Duda I'd seen before, and his rallies were stronger than I expected.

── The atmosphere and spectators at the international tournament held in Japan must have been amazing. What did you think of the atmosphere?

Togami: It was great, really. It felt very Japanese, with lots of Japanese-style cheering, and I think I was able to play freely.)
 
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Miwa felt down after seeing the draw, which she watched live after the T.League match ended. She admitted it was in fact a defeat. And more proof that she treats international competitions differently than she does leagues.

Hashimoto felt more or less the same after seeing the draw, which she didn't watch directly.

張本美和 初戦で橋本帆乃香との日本人対決に本音「勝ってハッピーだったんですけど、ちょっと気分が落ちました」【卓球 WTT横浜】
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/tabletennis/news/2026/08/042286.html
(Reflecting on last year's tournament, she said, "A year has passed so quickly. I think I've gained experience and grown in this past year, especially in how to respond to the flow and atmosphere of matches."

This year, she will be competing as the No. 1 seed, but she emphasized her relaxed approach, saying, "I'm not feeling too much pressure. I don't feel any pressure, and I'll just do my best in each match."

Regarding the only WTT Champions tournament held in Japan, she said, "I would like to compete in more matches so that everyone can watch," while also adding, "There are some complicated aspects to competing against Japanese athletes. But a competition is a competition. I will compete with a different mindset in international tournaments, so I will go all out to win."

Regarding her goals, she said, "Last year I only played one match, so this year I want to play one more. Of course I'm aiming to win the championship, but my current goal is to beat Hashimoto," and then turned her attention to the first match, which will be an all-Japanese showdown.)

張本美和「正直、負けの内容だった」橋本帆乃香との日本人対決をフルゲームで制すも反省【卓球 WTT横浜】
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/tabletennis/news/2026/08/042293.html
それでも逆転勝利を収めた張本だが、試合後は安堵と反省が入り混じる表情を見せた。

「もちろん勝ってうれしいですけど、ドローが出た時から結構自分の中では不安がありました。久しぶりの試合だったので、自信がなくて…。1対2でリードされた時も、自分の得点パターンなのにビビってしまって、自分がやりたいこととは違うプレーをしてしまいました」

苦しみながらも勝利をつかんだ一戦を、「すごくいい経験になりました」と振り返った。

この日は試合中にサーブのフォルトを取られる場面もあった。

「フォルトを取られてからはビビって何も出せなくなってしまって…。審判にフォルトを取られなければ何でもいいという気持ちでした」

苦肉の策として普段は多用しないバックサーブを選択。「バックサーブに変えてからは展開は悪くなかったですし、相手も普段出さないサーブだったので、今回はうまくいったのかなと思います」と試合中の修正を明かした。

また、橋本とのラリーでは試合間隔が長くなる場面も多く、「リズムを落としたい気持ちもありましたが、イエローカードが出てしまったので、早くサーブを出して構えるしかありませんでした」と独特の試合展開にも対応を迫られた。

日本開催ならではの大声援については、「1ゲーム目からたくさん応援してくださって本当にうれしかったです」と感謝。

一方で、劣勢の場面では「応援に応えられないかもしれない、負けて終わってしまうかもしれないという思いもよぎりました」と胸の内を明かした。

「今日の試合を乗り越えられたので、正直、今日は負けたものの内容だったと思っています。ここからはもう怖いものはないので、1試合ずつ頑張りたいです」と語った。
(Despite securing a come-from-behind victory, Harimoto displayed a mix of relief and self-reflection after the match.

"Of course I'm happy to have won, but I was quite anxious from the moment the draw was announced. It had been a while since my last match, so I lacked confidence... Even when I was trailing 1-2, I got scared despite it being my scoring pattern, and I ended up playing differently than I wanted."

Reflecting on the hard-fought victory, she said, "It was a really good experience."

During the match, she also committed a serve fault.

"After the fault, I got scared and couldn't do anything... I just felt like anything was fine as long as the umpire didn't call a fault."

As a last resort, she chose to use a backhand serve, which she doesn't usually use. "After switching to the backhand serve, the game didn't go badly, and my opponent also didn't usually use that serve, so I think it worked out well this time," she revealed, explaining her in-match adjustments.

Furthermore, during rallies with Hashimoto, there were many instances where the intervals between matches were long, and she admitted, "I wanted to slow down the rhythm, but I received a yellow card, so I had no choice but to serve quickly and get ready," indicating that she was forced to adapt to the unique match dynamics.

Regarding the loud cheers unique to a tournament held in Japan, she expressed her gratitude, saying, "I was really happy that everyone cheered so much from the first game."

On the other hand, she revealed her inner thoughts during moments of disadvantage, saying, "I had thoughts that I might not be able to live up to their expectations, that I might lose and it would all end badly."

She concluded, "I was able to get through today's match, but honestly, it was a defeat. From here on, there's nothing to be afraid of, so I want to do my best in each match.")

橋本帆乃香「おお、もうここか」初戦で世界3位・張本美和との日本人対決に苦笑い【卓球 WTT横浜】
https://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/tabletennis/news/2026/08/042285.html
コンディションについては「大会が続いていますが状態は本当にいい」と話し、「時差もなく、日本で調整できているので、思い切って試合に臨みたい」と順調な仕上がりをアピールした。
(Regarding her condition, she said, "Although the tournaments are continuing, I'm in really good condition," and added, "There's no jet lag, and I've been able to adjust in Japan, so I want to approach the match with confidence," emphasizing her smooth preparation.)

【卓球】カットマン橋本帆乃香が逆転負け「急激に足が曲がった」足が滑るアクシデントも発生
https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/202608050000974.html
「カーペットで滑って、急激に足が曲がった。アキレス腱(けん)に違和感が出た」

そのままプレーを続け、張本のオーバーでこのゲームを奪ったものの、橋本はよろけながらベンチへ戻った。

試合は一時中断となり、メディカルスタッフによる治療が施された。約6分の中断の末、試合は再開。その後は「アドレナリンが出ていた。試合中は気にならなかった。どうしても競技ができないほどのものではない」とコートに立ったが、第4G中盤からは張本に押し込まれた。

5月の世界選手権団体戦では決勝で中国選手を撃破。「カットマン」の戦型とともに注目を集めたが、張本相手には4連敗となった。「技術面でやりきる力とあとは気持ち」と課題を口にし「リードしているのに負けてしまうパターンが続いている。同じ原因ではないと思うが、足りない部分があるということ。しっかり勝ちきれるようにしたい」と声を振り絞った。
("I slipped on the carpet, and my leg bent sharply. I felt discomfort in my Achilles tendon."

Although she continued playing and won the game with a parry by Harimoto, Hashimoto stumbled back to the bench.

The match was temporarily suspended, and she received treatment from the medical staff. After a delay of about six minutes, the match resumed. She then returned to the court, saying, "The adrenaline was pumping. I didn't notice it during the match. It wasn't something that prevented me from competing," but from the middle of the fourth game, she was pushed back by Harimoto.

At the World Team Championships in May, she defeated a Chinese player in the final. Her "cutman" playing style attracted attention, but she suffered her fourth consecutive loss against Harimoto. She identified her weaknesses as "the ability to execute technically and mental strength," and added, "I've been losing despite being in the lead. I don't think it's the same reason, but there are areas where I'm lacking. I want to be able to win decisively.")
 
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Harimoto elaborated on the reason behind his loss to Sidorenko at USA GS 2026.

【卓球】張本智和が前回大会からの成長明かす「技術、戦術の幅が増えただけではなく…」
https://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/articles/-/398410
 前回大会で同1位の王楚欽(中国)を撃破し、頂点に立ってから1年。張本は「よりできることが増えた。技術、戦術の幅が増えただけではなく、質もしっかり試合で使えると思える自信があるくらい、練習してきた自負はある」と成長を口にした。

 さらに、張本は今大会に向けてサーブの練習を重点的に行ってきた。その理由には「世界のトップ5、10でサーブがうまくない人はいない中で、多分僕だけうまくない。ラリーだけで点を取ってきた」と告白。自信のあるラリーに加え「サーブもあれば、より楽に勝てると思う」と愚直に取り組んできた。

 サーブ強化を考えるきっかけの一つには、7月にUSスマッシュ(米国)で格下のウラジミール・シドレンコ(ロシア)にストレート負けし、「実力で負けたというよりは、サーブで試合が崩れた」と悔しさを味わったことも大きかった。

 まさかの敗北から鍛錬を重ね、自身の成長に胸を張る張本は「去年優勝しているので今年も優勝を狙うのは当然だが、本当に強敵が多いので、必死に頑張るだけ」と長い道のりを見据えた。
(One year has passed since he defeated the world No. 1, Wang Chuqin (China), at the previous tournament to claim the top spot. Harimoto spoke of his growth, saying, "I can do more now. Not only have my technical and tactical ranges expanded, but I'm confident that the quality of my skills is good enough to use effectively in matches. I've practiced hard, and I'm proud of that."

Furthermore, Harimoto focused on practicing his serve in preparation for this tournament. He confessed, "Among the world's top 5 and 10 players, there isn't a single one who isn't good at serving, but I think I'm the only one who isn't. I've been winning points solely through rallies." He added, "I think if I can improve my serve in addition to my confident rallying, I can win more easily," and has diligently worked on improving it.

One of the triggers for considering strengthening his serve was his straight-games loss to the lower-ranked Vladimir Sidorenko (Russia) at the US Smash (USA) in July. He felt the bitterness of that loss, saying, "It wasn't so much that I lost due to a lack of skill, but rather that my serve ruined the match."

After his unexpected defeat, Harimoto, who has been training hard and is proud of his own growth, said, "I won last year, so of course I'm aiming to win again this year, but there are a lot of really strong opponents, so I'll just do my best," looking ahead to the long road ahead.)
 
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Not just Hayata, but something is also wrong with both Harimoto and Hashimoto after WTTC 2026. Another indication of poor team morale and team spirit.

Hashimoto approved that JNT players are now the best at playing choppers in the world, how she's lost so much and so consistently to her teammates that "there might be some underlying issue" both technically and mentally.

張本美和との激闘終えた橋本帆乃香「日本人選手は世界で一番カット打ちがうまい」<卓球・WTTチャンピオンズ横浜2026>
https://rallys.online/topic/international/260805wttchampionsyokohama-hashimotohonokacomment/
── 気持ちの話もされてましたが、世界選手権含めて様々な舞台を経験されるようになってきた中でも、まだちょっと精神的に揺らいでしまう部分がある感じなんですか?

橋本:一番は日本人対決でよく負けてしまうのが今続いてるんですけど、ベンチにも入れない状況もありますし、日本人選手って本当に世界含めて一番カット打ちがうまい選手だと思うので。

特に格上の選手、今だと張本選手、早田選手、大藤選手含めて、ずっと負けが続いているので、最後まで取り切れないということは、技術もそうですけど精神的に、見えない部分でも何か原因があるんじゃないかなとは感じます。
(──You mentioned your feelings earlier, but even though you've gained experience on various stages, including the World Championships, do you still feel like you're a little mentally unstable?

Hashimoto: The biggest issue right now is that I'm losing a lot in matches against other Japanese players. There are times when I can't even make it onto the bench, and I think Japanese players are truly the best at playing choppers in the world.

Especially against higher-ranked players, like Harimoto, Hayata, and Odo, I've been losing consistently, and the fact that I can't finish the match makes me think that there might be some underlying issue, not just technically, but mentally as well.)

勝利後に涙を浮かべた張本美和 「第4ゲームでもう終わったと思った」<卓球・WTTチャンピオンズ横浜2026>
https://rallys.online/topic/international/260804wttchampionsyokohama-harimotomiwacomment/
── 第4ゲーム、第5ゲームあたりの心情について教えてください。

張本:第4ゲームでもう終わったと思ってました。リードされてましたし、第3ゲームの中で自分もナヨナヨして2点取られて、もう無理かという感じで入った分リードされてしまったので、終わりかと思って、きつかったです。

── 涙も出ていましたが、苦しさから解放されたような感じというか、安堵したような気持ちでしたか?

張本:また今日は初めて新たな経験というか、新たな自分が見れた気がして。試合中に何本かミスしてしまった時に、自分が意図的にやってミスしたわけじゃなくて、多分不安とか自信がなかったりとかで、変な技術使ってしまったのが何球もあって、自分でももう手が抑えられないというか、出ちゃったという。

メンタルもそうですし、試合前の準備が足りなかったので自分の中にそういう悔しさが残りましたし、試合前は自分は準備してる方で、試合勝って準備不足だなと思うことがあんまりないので、負けた試合でもそうなんですけど、久しぶりにそう感じて悔しさが残りましたね。
(──Could you tell us about your feelings around the fourth and fifth games?

Harimoto: I thought it was over in the fourth game. I was behind, and in the third game, I was being weak and lost two points, so I went into the next game feeling like it was hopeless, and that's when I fell behind. I thought it was over, and it was tough.

──You were crying, but did you feel like you were released from the pain, or that you felt relieved?

Harimoto: Today was also a new experience for me, and I felt like I saw a new side of myself. There were several times during the match when I made mistakes, and I didn't make them intentionally. I think it was because I was anxious or lacked confidence, and I used strange techniques on several shots, and I couldn't control my hands anymore, or rather, they just came out.

It wasn't just my mental state; I wasn't prepared enough before the match, so I was left with that feeling of regret. I'm usually quite well-prepared before matches, and I rarely feel unprepared after winning, even after losing. It's been a while since I felt that way, and it left me with a lot of regret.)


2024/7/6
https://www.tabletennisdaily.com/fo...ender-bangkok-2024-july-2-7.34377/post-466806
KOR is no longer the team from 2004 and 2008. They don't produce choppers like they used to and hence don't play choppers as well now. Remember KOR lost to GER at Tokyo 2020 and SYB, their best hope, was the culprit. Like I touched on last month, JPN is now better than CHN (and likely the best) at playing defenders (and combination players in general), which is another reason why Hirano's subsequent loss to Pavade was insignificant in comparison. Bergstrom, SHW and HY are the pot stirrers. But without SHW and HY, KOR and GER will be a lot weaker at Paris 2024, a lame duck for the latter especially.

2026/2/28
https://www.tabletennisdaily.com/forum/topics/sabine-winter-switches-to-antispin.36350/post-566326
HY doesn't have a killer FH either and how does she manage it? Hashimoto's problem as I kept touching on has nothing to do with her skills but simply her teammates being too good at playing combination styles, just like how JSH was to RSM and OSE. It's just like Winter who has serious trouble getting past JNT players, with her FH getting shut down severely.
 
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