Taiwan's Lin Yun-ju reaches semifinal in WTT Singapore Smash
台灣選手林昀儒晉級新加坡大滿貫（WTT）四強賽
| TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s top table tennis player Lin Yun-ju (林昀儒) advanced to the semifinals of the World Table Tennis Singapore Smash on Saturday after defeating Germany’s Patrick Franziska 4-1 in the men’s singles quarterfinals.
Speaking to local media after the match, Lin said his victory stemmed from being decisive at every stage, including the opening exchanges. He said he executed his training effectively and continues to enjoy competing, per CNA. Nicknamed the “Silent Assassin,” Lin rose to international prominence early in his career. He won a bronze medal in mixed doubles with Cheng I-ching at the Tokyo Olympics and finished fourth in men’s singles at the same Games. In 2023, he claimed his first WTT Championships men’s singles title, cementing his status among the world’s elite players. Lin is now the only Taiwanese competitor remaining in the Singapore tournament. On Thursday, he defeated China’s Xiang Peng 11-8, 11-5, 11-4 in the round of 16. In Saturday’s quarterfinal, Lin controlled the tempo from the outset. A fortunate shot at a crucial moment helped him secure the first game 11-7. His forehand proved dominant in the second game as he broke through Franziska’s defense to win 15-13. After taking the third game 11-7 to build a commanding lead, Lin faltered in the fourth. Despite mounting a comeback, he dropped the game 8-11. In the fifth game, Lin steadied himself under pressure, regained momentum and closed out the match 11-7 to seal his place in the semifinals. Lin said he and Franziska have faced each other numerous times and are familiar with each other’s playing styles. He said confidence and tactical execution were key, particularly in the tightly contested second game. He added that every match presents challenges and that he hopes to continue enjoying the competition while showcasing the skills he has developed in training. His next opponent will be the winner of the quarterfinal between China’s Chen Yuanyu and Sweden’s Truls Moregardh. |
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| Sean Scanlan Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2026-03-01 |
