2020 ITTF World Tour Platinum German Open Magdeburg January 30-February 2
Actual CCB 2020 ITTF Europe Top-16 Cup winner Dimitrij OVTCHAROV has recorded one of his biggest victories in ITTF World Tour prevailing against current World no.1 FAN Zhendong of China in a superb style – 4:3 (9;11 11:4 8:11 10:12 12:10 11:5 12:10) – in the quarter-finals at the 2020 ITTF World Tour Platinum German Open in Magdeburg.
Host player managed to save match points in the fifth game against the defending champion who faced three match points in the deciding game. It was the end of an impressive winning streak of FAN the champion of previous four ITTF World Tour events.
“One years ago I played against him in the Chinese Table Tennis Super League it was a close game with a result of 2-3. In the international stage we met twice 2017 once I won and once I lost. I think the total record between us is 2 wins and 3 lost. The match I lost I lost very very close. I think if I can play kind of level I can beat anyone but it’s about really bringing it to the table and for this you need confidence. When I was down to 10-7 in the 5th game I felt his nervosity since he was so closed to win the match and that gave me some confidence. It’s nice to see even the best player like FAN Zhendong has this kind of emotion. I feel very supportive from audience I do think it’s the best thing that a player can wish for himself” stated Dimitrij OVTCHAROV.
FAN Zhendong stressed that he “had a problem with receiving the ball”:
“Today my situation was not so well. I didn’t seize the chance at the match point. Also OVTCHAROV Dimitrij played really well I prepare a lot before the game but it seems not enough.”
The most decorated player in ITTF World Tour men’s singles history with 28 titles MA Long of China will be the next opponent of OVTCHAROV. They will meet this Sunday 12:30. Actual both Olympic and World champion who beat Korea’s qualifier CHO Seungmin won all previous 16 encounters with German star.
