A fair play award is to be established using the cash penalty imposed on Zhang Jike after he celebrated his World Cup final win by kicking down advertising hoardings, table tennis authorities said yesterday.
And the Chinese star said the annual prize would "reward players for their good will on and off the table tennis court". Zhang was ordered to forfeit prize money of US$45,000 for a moment of madness after beating compatriot Ma Long in the men's World Cup final on October 26. Zhang stormed around the hall and kicked in the boards bearing the names of two key sponsors.
Zhang acknowledged that his loss would go to a good cause. "I am happy that the money will be offered to a fair play award. This will give a good example to the younger players."
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