In a stunning display of skill and determination, India’s table tennis star Manika Batra shocked the world by defeating Wang Manyu of China, the world’s No. 2 player, in the Saudi Smash 2024.
Batra, currently ranked 39, faced off against Wang in the women’s singles Round of 32 at the Saudi Smash table tennis tournament. The match was a hard-fought contest that lasted 37 minutes, with Batra emerging victorious with a score of 3-1.
Manika Batra dominated the opponent despite an early lead
The first game saw Wang take the lead with a score of 11-6. However, Batra quickly turned the tables in the second game, winning 11-5. She continued her winning streak in the third game, securing a score of 11-7.
The fourth game was a nail-biting affair. Batra was down 8-10 but showcased nerves of steel as she saved two game points before sealing the match 12-10. This victory marked one of the biggest wins of her singles career.
Batra’s win over Wang Manyu is not just a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for Indian table tennis. It underscores the rising stature of Indian players on the global stage and serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the country.
Following her historic win, Batra will face World No. 14 Nina Mittelham of Germany in the Round of 16. As she advances in the tournament, her performance will undoubtedly be closely watched by fans and competitors alike.
World Top 3 female paddlers (all Chinese):
1. Sun Yingsha
2. Wang Manyu
3. Wang YidiThis year:
Ayhika Mukherjee BEAT Sun Yingsha | Manika Batra BEAT Wang Manyu | Sreeja Akula BEAT Wang YidiSimply Wow ♥️ pic.twitter.com/q79m3lcxex
— India_AllSports (@India_AllSports) May 6, 2024
In the women’s doubles, Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee kicked off their tournament with a commanding 3-0 (11-7, 11-3, 11-4) victory against the Egyptian pairing of Marwa Alhodaby and Mariam Alhodaby.
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