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Wang Chuqin Sweeps Félix Lebrun in Beijing Final as Teen Becomes First French Grand Smash Finalist

The Grand Smash stage provides a major springboard for the 19-year-old world No. 7 before his European team campaign in Zadar.

Overview

  • World No. 1 Wang Chuqin beat Lebrun in straight sets 11-7, 11-2, 11-5, 11-7 at Beijing’s Shougang Park before a strongly pro-home crowd.
  • Lebrun’s run included a 4-2 semifinal win over world No. 2 Lin Shidong, making him the first French player to reach a Grand Smash final.
  • Earlier in the tournament, the Frenchman saved a match point to get past China’s Chen Junsong and keep his campaign alive.
  • Wang described his title as the end of a demanding week, likening the event to a marathon and noting the pressure he felt to deliver.
  • The Paris 2024 medalist, ranked No. 7, now turns to the European team championships in Zadar from October 12 to 19.