China announce roster for ITTF Mixed Team World Cup

The Chinese table tennis team has confirmed its roster for the 2025 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Mixed Team World Cup in Chengdu, after Wang Yidi and Xu Yingbin triumphed in the women's and men's categories respectively in the team's trial.

Wang Chuqin/Sun Yingsha (R) of China compete during the mixed doubles match against Cho Daeseong/Shin Yubin of South Korea at the final match between China and South Korea at the ITTF Mixed Team World Cup 2024 in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Dec. 8, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

Sun Yingsha and Wang Manyu, the top two women's paddlers in the world rankings, along with doubles specialist Kuai Man, were selected, while on the men's side, top players Wang Chuqin, Lin Shidong and Liang Jingkun were included.

In the two-phase women's team trial, Wang Yidi beat Shi Xunyao 4-1 to secure her place in the event's reigning champion squad.

"As the mixed team event has been included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, our coaching group and players have paid great attention to it," said Ma Lin, head coach of the Chinese women's team.

"We hope that our players will be motivated through the competition," he added.

Xu emerged victorious in the seven-man competition after outplaying Chen Yuanyu 3-1, and will participate in the tournament for the first time.

"There is quite a little gap to separate these seven players, and the key points decided the outcome," commented Chinese men's team coach Wang Hao.

The ITTF Mixed Team World Cup will be held from November 30 to December 7.