Adham Sharara, ITTF President, in his speech at the Opening Ceremony
of the H.I.S. World Championships in Yokohama on Tuesday 28th April
2009, highlighted the fact that since the global event was last held in
Japan, in Osaka in 2001, several very talented young players from the
host country have emerged.
One of those is 14 year old Koki
Niwa, who stole the show on the opening day of play, Tuesday 28th April
2009, but there are others from visiting countries who impressed and
are even younger than the Japanese star.
Youngest
In fact there
are three entrants who are younger than Niwa, the youngest being Lily
Zhang from San Francisco in the United States of America.
She is only 12 years old.
Appearances
In
the qualification stage of the Women’s Singles event she was not
required to raise her racket in anger, her opponent Elonna Tormis of
the Philippines failing to make an appearance; whilst in the Mixed
Doubles competition, she made two visits to the table.
Partnering
Timothy Wang, the duo beat Congo Democratic’s Bomboko Babungu and Amma
Litobaka before losing by the very narrowest of five game margins to
Latvia’s Matiss Burgis and Baiba Bogdasarova.
Good Opportunity
"It’s
really cool to be here amongst so many great players", said Lily Zhang.
"It’s a really good opportunity and I think in the doubles matches I
played my best."
Certainly, coach on duty, Jasna Reed, was more than pleased.
All Round Player
"She
did well in the doubles, she’s an all round player, very safe from both
sides", said the former Yugoslav and American international who has a
wealth of experience. "She can play strongly when necessary", continued
Jasna Reed. "Also, she’s very happy; yesterday, she met her idol, Zhang
Yining."
Definitely, a good player to have as an idol, Zhang
Yining is not only a fine table tennis player, one of the best the
sport has ever seen; she is also very humble, very polite and
courteous, a lady who sets a splendid example.
Consistent and Fine Temperament
"She’s consistent", said Lily Zhang. "She has a wonderful temperament, that’s why I admire her so much."
Well, on the opening day Lily Zhang showed the qualities of Zhang Yining and belied her youth.
Young Players
The
youngest player in the tournament, the next on the age range ladder is
her compatriot, Ariel Hsing, she is 13 years old whilst for the boys;,
the youngest is New Zealand’s Kevin Wu.
He is 14 years old, one month younger than Koki Niwa.
Source: www.ittf.com
