Harimoto and Hayata Triumph in All-Japan Table Tennis Championships

Tomokazu Harimoto Claims Second Title at All Japan Championships After Six Years

TOKYO, Jan 29 (News On Japan) - On the final day of the All Japan Table Tennis Championships held at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium in Shibuya, Tokyo, the men's and women's singles finals took place on Sunday, January 28.

In the men's final, Tomokazu Harimoto, who has already secured his spot as a representative for the men's singles at the Paris Olympics, faced the same opponent as last year, Jun Togami. Harimoto struggled against Togami's varied serves and powerful shots, falling behind with a game count of 1-3. However, Harimoto made a comeback, winning the fifth game with his signature powerful backhand 11-9, and despite facing multiple match points against him in the sixth game, he prevailed in crucial rallies to win 14-12, tying the game count at 3-3. The decisive seventh game was a fierce battle with neither player yielding, leading to a series of deuces, but Harimoto clinched the game 16-14, securing his second championship win six years after his historic victory at the age of 14 in 2018.

Overcome with emotion, Harimoto slowly crouched down after his win before embracing Togami, with both players acknowledging each other's valiant efforts. Harimoto expressed his disbelief, "I'm at a loss for words. It's as if I've won my first championship all over again, having forgotten how to win the All Japan. The sense of victory I feel now is a hundred times greater than back then. My legs were cramping, but in the last two points, it stopped suddenly, and I felt as if the gods were telling me to win."

Reflecting on his opponent, Harimoto said, "Togami played perfectly; no matter what I did, it was tough. He and I are truly equals and rivals. For the remaining six months, I want to push forward to the Olympics as teammates."

Jun Togami, who missed out on a third consecutive championship and finished as runner-up, shared, "The All Japan is a special tournament that everyone aims for, and I've realized that once again. There were moments when I felt pressured by my opponent, but I managed to play with a spirit of resilience. Despite the anxiety and tension, I was able to stick to my style until the end." Regarding the final against Harimoto, Togami remarked, "Harimoto used to be an untouchable presence, but now he is a comrade and rival on the Japanese national team. I will never forget being able to compete in the Olympic year final like this, and I want to win next time." Speaking about the Paris Olympics, where he has secured his spot as a representative, he said, "The difference in the strength of my table tennis from when I first won this tournament two years ago to now is clear, and I feel I have grown. I aim to win gold medals in both singles and team events."

Hina Hayata Wins Women's Singles for the Third Time in Two Consecutive Tournaments

In the women's final, Hina Hayata, who has also secured her spot as a representative for the women's singles at the Paris Olympics, faced 15-year-old Miwa Harimoto, aiming to become the youngest champion in history. Hayata trailed 5-9 in the first game but managed to reverse the situation with six consecutive points using her varied shots and strong forehand, winning the game 11-9. Dominating the match, Hayata showcased her diverse techniques, including her unique "Chiquita" spin return, and won with a game count of 4-0, achieving her third championship win in two consecutive tournaments. Hayata displayed overwhelming strength as Japan's ace, losing only one game in six matches throughout the tournament.

"I'm really relieved now," Hayata said after defending her title. "I had lost to Harimoto last November, and I thought I might lose the first game today as well. It came down to each and every shot, so I could only focus on what was in front of me. Various players have been strategizing to beat me, but I think my ability to respond was high in this tournament." She added, "It's cold outside in Tokyo, but I'm glad we could provide a heated match. My goal is to win the gold medal at the Paris Olympics, and the next six months will be crucial, so I ask for even more support and encouragement."

by Brian Dentry

Source: NHK

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