Hong Kong table tennis star Doo Hoi-kem has prepared for the upcoming World Table Tennis Team Championships with a “positive impact” despite finishing second in two events at the Taiyuan World Table Tennis Candidates event at the weekend.
On Sunday, Doo and partner Ng Wing-lam, the tournament’s third seed, lost 3-1 to China’s Shi Xunyao and Han Feier in the doubles final. Facing the hosts, the Hongkongers gave themselves hope by winning the third game, but eventually they were eliminated 11-6, 11-4, 6-11, 12-10 in 26 minutes.
On Saturday, Doo also finished second in the doubles final, with long-time partner Wong Chun-ting.
The pair who came out on top were defeated 3-1 by the Chinese pair, Shi and Huang Youzheng for the second place of the four-time bronze medalists in the three months since they won the Star Contender tournament in Doha in January.
Hong Kong head coach Li Ching said the world No. 5 mixed doubles results were the result of some “specific training” to elevate their game.
“Their style of play has generally been simple and smooth, showing little success in high competitive ability,” he said. “These results are definitely positive, and give us hope ahead of the Asian Games.
“Doo and Wong will definitely give their all, and they will be aiming for a medal at the Aichi-Nagoya Games. As for the other events, we will also try our best.”
