(by Steve Hopkins, photo WTT)
There have been some truly amazing streaks in recent years – but Calderano’s World Cup win coupled with the Finals appearance at the World Championships (in consecutive tournaments) is among the best runs in recent history. One could certainly make the argument that this is the best run for a non-Chinese player – a run where Calderano has already beaten World No. 1, No. 2, No. 4, and No. 5. If Calderano wins the Final against Wang Chuqin, then you can add another Top 5 win to his list, and if he loses – he and Chuqin are 1-1 (as Calderano beat Chuqin at the World Cup in the Semifinals).
Liang Jingkun was experiencing an emotional high on Friday night after knocking off World No. 1 Lin Shidong 4-3. That all came crashing down on Saturday when Hugo Calderano jumped out to an early lead, before Jingkun regained the momentum only to fall just short in the seventh game. Calderano won the first game 15-13, perhaps setting the tone for what was to be a long battle. The two then traded the next three games, with scores tight throughout, but with one player escaping late. At that point, after four games, Calderano was up 3-1 – but the momentum shifted. Liang Jingkun dominated the next two games winning 11-3 and 11-7 and seemingly entered the final game with every advantage. But at 3-3, everything turned Calderano’s way. Big shots, long rallies, a few nets and edges – and all of a sudden the score was 10-3. And then things stayed interesting, as Jingkun answered with 6 points in a row to make it 10-9 before a backhand floated inches long and Calderano celebrated.
In the other half of the draw, Moregard an Chuqin put on a great show. Moregard won the first game and thereafter, the points were exciting and crowd was loud. But Chuqin was in control throughout – winning the final four games and walking into the Finals with a 4-1 win.
Hugo Calderano was the first Latin American player to reach the Men’s Singles Semifinals at an ITTF World Championships. A day later, he is the first Latin American player to reach the Final. It seems every day is a new opportunity to make history for Hugo Calderano. The Finals are to be played on Sunday.
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