Lin Shidong advances to WTT Champions Frankfurt men's singles final

Lin Shidong of China swept past Lin Yun-ju of Chinese Taipei 11-9, 13-11, 11-2, 11-8 in the men's singles semifinals at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Champions Frankfurt in Frankfurt, Germany, on Saturday, reaching the final to face Anton Kallberg of Sweden.

The first game remained close as the score went to 5-4 with Lin Yun-ju on top. Then Lin Shidong got five straight points to gain the lead 9-5 and stood up against the opponents' rally to clinch the game, leading 1-0 in the match.

Lin Shidong began the second game with a 4-1 lead, but Lin Yun-ju responded five consecutive points before the fierce competition was tied 9-9. Lin Shidong then displayed better ability for clutch plays, outlasting the opponent to extend his lead to 2-0.

Lin Shidong continued his sharp attacks in the third game and Lin Yun-ju was not ready for them, allowing eight straight points after trailing 3-2 to suffer a quick loss.

Lin Yun-ju found his form back in the fourth game, staying in the competition as the score reached 7-7. Then Lin Shidong had three points in a row to stand next to victory. Though the opponent saved one match point, Lin Shidong sealed the deal and his place in the final.

Two Chinese players, Wang Manyu and Wang Yidi will face each other in the women's singles final. Wang Manyu beat her compatriot Chen Xingtong 7-11, 11-4, 11-9, 11-2, 11-5. Wang Yidi knocked out Japanese favorite Miwa Harimoto 11-5, 8-11, 11-6, 7-11, 11-9, 11-7.