PARIS — South Korean table tennis player Shin Yu-bin was defeated by defending champion Chen Meng of China in the women's singles semifinals at the Paris Olympics on Friday. The loss sets Shin up for a bronze medal match against Japan's Hina Hayata on Saturday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the 20-year-old Shin, ranked No. 8 in the world, lost 4-0 in a match dominated by Chen, the world No. 4, with scores of 11-7 in all four games at South Paris Arena 4. This match sends Shin to compete against world No. 5 Hina Hayata, who also faced a 4-0 defeat against top-ranked Chinese player Sun Yingsha in her semifinal.
Shin's upcoming match marks a significant moment as she aims to secure the first table tennis singles medal for South Korea in two decades, and the first time a South Korean has competed in an Olympic semifinal since 2004. Despite her previous record of no wins in four matches against Hayata, Shin remains hopeful for a strong performance in the bronze medal match.
Reflecting on her semifinal performance, Shin noted her initial lead in the second game, but acknowledged her inability to maintain momentum against Chen's experience and skill. "I had my chances but couldn't capitalize on them. I made too many mistakes," Shin admitted. She remains optimistic about her physical condition and mental preparation for the upcoming match. "My tournament is not over. I will get good rest and come back with a fresh mindset," she stated.
Shin's quest for a bronze medal will be closely watched as she attempts to make history for South Korean table tennis.