Paris 2024 Table Tennis: Chen Meng of the People’s Republic of China wins gold in women's singles

Chen Meng of the People’s Republic of China defeated her teammate Sun Yingsha in the women’s table tennis singles final on Saturday (3 August) to capture Olympic gold at Paris 2024 by a final score of 4-2.

The 30-year-old became the third woman in history to win back-to-back Olympic golds in the event after topping the podium at Tokyo 2020.

“There are no failures in this gold medal match," Chen said. "To be able to win another gold and silver for China table tennis, we’ve both done our jobs.

"We were playing for our own dreams out there. I was the underdog today. I didn’t think about winning the match, so I’m quite surprised myself. It feels like I’ve done the impossible.

“This is how things are on the Olympic stage," she added. "There are so many possibilities. You have to be bold to dream, and don’t give up when there are challenges. Whether in life, or on the court, there will always be a way to find a breakthrough.”

Sun entered the final as the No. 1 ranked player in the world in women's singles. On 30 July, she won gold in mixed doubles alongside partner Wang Chuqin, making this her second medal of Paris 2024.

"My goal was to win a medal, so it's disappointing not to achieve that," Sun said on her silver medal. "Leading after the first game and then losing the match was the most regretful part.

"Playing many matches is mentally exhausting, that’s why maintaining strong mental strength is crucial. Losing today has made me stronger, and I believe it will help me grow.”

Earlier, Hayata Hina of Japan defeated Shin Yubin of the Republic of Korea 4-2 in the bronze medal match to complete the podium.

"This bronze medal represents overcoming challenges and the incredible support from everyone around me," Hina said. "I felt today in my left hand the power from all these people. It’s not just my achievement but a shared success with all who helped me along the way."

Table Tennis: Women’s singles podium

Gold: Chen Meng, People’s Republic of China

Silver: Sun Yingsha, People’s Republic of China

Bronze: Hayata Hina, Japan