The storybook scenario was quite simple for the Men’s Singles final at the Volkswagen Pro Tour Grand Finals in Macau on Sunday 14th December 2008.
China’s Wang Hao would win the title and on Monday 15th December he would celebrate his 25th birthday by driving away in a brand new Volkswagen Scirocco saloon car and bank a cheque for US$38,000. However, Ma Long had other ideas and he was in no mood to provide his compatriot with a splendid birthday present.
In fact his approach was quite the opposite. There was no birthday present from Ma Long.
No Charity
The young man, five years the junior of Wang Hao was in no mood whatsoever for charity and was certainly not seeking a birthday party invitation.
He overcame Wang Hao in four straight games to be crowned champion.
Ma Long won 13-11, 11-9, 11-9, 11-5.
Reversal of Fortunes
It was to some extent a reversal of recent fortunes; in 2008 they had met on three occasions with Wang Hao emerging victorious at the Volkswagen Open China and at the Volkswagen Open Japan but at the Volkswagen Open Korea it had been Ma Long who prevailed.
Although of their 12 meetings in world ranking events, of which Wang Hao had won nine, the significant factor was arguably that on their most recent meeting the verdict had gone to Ma Long.
Forehand
In typical style, Ma Long sought to play his favoured forehand topspin at every opportunity; Wang Hao tried to prevent that situation happening and directed his attacks towards the body of his 20 year old adversary.
He met with some success but it was Ma Long who won the important points; the first three games were all decided by the minimal two point margin; however, all three had one other factor in common. They were all won by Ma Long.
Became Passive
Winning the close games added to the confidence of Ma Long, Wang Hao became passive, his concentration seemingly wandering and resigned to defeat.
The 20 year old maintained his tirade of incessant attacks with his backhand directed wide to the Wang Hao forehand reaping rewards; he dominated the fourth game and in impressive style emerged victorious.
Runner Up Again
One year ago in Beijing Wang Hao had to settle for runners up spot, one year later it was the same scenario.
The champion was Ma Long.
Source: www.ittf.com
