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China's Ma Long wins his first men's singles title at World Table Tennis Championships

In his fourth attempt, he beats compatriot Fang Bo in the final

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Ma Long jumps on the table after becoming world champion for the first time by beating Fang Bo in the final. Photo: Xinhua

World No 1 Ma Long from China won his first men's singles world table tennis title, defeating teammate Fang Bo 4-2 (11-7, 7-11, 11-4, 11-8, 11-13, 11-4) in Suzhou on Sunday night.

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The 23-year-old Fang can leave the tournament with his head held high having stunned world No 2 Xu Xin and two-time defending champion Zhang Jike in previous rounds

Ma, who was stopped at the semi-finals three times in 2009, 2011 and 2013 tournaments, finally seized the best possible chance to become world champion by beating surprise package Fang for the most coveted crown of the championships.

It’s like a dream come true. After all these days sometimes it was like torture because I had about seven matches in six days. At the end of the day I think all the torture was worth it
Ma Long

“It’s like a dream come true. After all these days sometimes it was like torture because I had about seven matches in six days. At the end of the day I think all the torture was worth it,” said Ma. who is the 11th world men’s singles champion from China.

Fang said he was proud of his performances in the tournament and was delighted to have played Ma in the final.

“I told Ma Long many times in Beijing that we would likely meet in the final and it came true,” said Fang, who has been troubled by injuries through the years.

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The 26-year-old Ma raised his game when required to overcome his teammate.

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