Scoring 2 Points to Reach the Final! 22-Year-Old Rising Star Xiang Peng Shines for China

In the 2025 Chinese Table Tennis Super League semifinals, Huangshi Huaxin led by 22-year-old Xiang Peng narrowly defeated Shantou Mingrun 3-2 to advance to the finals. Although Lin Shidong missed the match due to a shoulder injury, Xiang Peng stood out, scoring two crucial points and becoming the team’s key contributor.

Shantou Mingrun fielded their full-strength lineup, including Lin Gaoyuan, Chen Yuanyu, and Xu Haidong. The doubles match saw Lin Gaoyuan and Xu Haidong secure one point for Shantou, but the first singles matches ultimately decided the outcome. Xiang Peng defeated Chen Yuanyu 3-1 in the second match and then edged out Xu Haidong 3-2 in a thrilling fourth match, tying the overall score. Finally, Xue Fei won the decisive fifth match, sending Huangshi Huaxin to the finals.

Xiang Peng said after the match, “The players are evenly matched; it all comes down to performance under pressure. I managed the crucial points well today.” Lin Shidong, absent due to injury, cheered from the sidelines: “Even if I can’t play, I fully trust my teammates and support them quietly.”

Currently ranked 11th in the world, Xiang Peng is at a pivotal stage in vying for a spot in China’s national team main lineup. With veteran players like Ma Long retired, Lin Gaoyuan and Liang Jingkun’s form declining, and Fan Zhendong not yet back, the national team is relying on rising 2000s-born stars. Xiang Peng’s performance and growth potential make him a strong contender for the championship in the finals.