China sweeps Cup titles

China men’s and women’s table tennis teams swept the International Table Tennis Federation Team World Cup in London on Sunday.

The women’s squad, led by Ding Ning, Liu Shiwen and Zhu Yuling, maintained an unbeaten record with a 3-0 win over Japan’s Hina Hayata, Kasumi Ishikawa and Mima Ito.

The title was China’s eighth straight.

“Thanks to the fans for the support. Last year I took a break, I don’t think I’m back to 100 percent yet, but I’m on the road,” said Ding.

“Mima Ito is young and she fights hard. I will keep trying my best, I hope I’ll be in Tokyo for the 2020 Olympic Games.”

Liu added: “We were well prepared for the final; most certainly it was important to win the opening match and give our team a good start.”

Ishikawa said the Japanese women were impressed: “We must respect the Chinese players, they are very strong and we must acknowledge this.”

China’s men’s team claimed their seventh consecutive World Cup title with a 3-0 win over Japan.

“I think our team did well today,” said Olympic champion Ma Long.

“We had the desire to win, and the matches proceeded smoother than we thought.

“Now I need to get some sleep. Last night in the hotel there was a fire alarm. Now I look forward to the next big match.”