Just one day after rallying from two games down against France’s Alexis Lebrun in the semifinals, Liang repeated the feat against Japan’s top player Tomokazu Harimoto.
Liang struggled early on, dropping the opening two games 11-8 and 11-4 as Harimoto dictated play with relentless pace and aggression. But the Chinese player gradually found his rhythm and turned the match around with fearless attacking play, taking the next two games 11-9 and 13-11.
Harimoto appeared on course for victory after building an 8-3 lead in the deciding game, only for Liang to produce a late surge. Roaring after every winner, Liang reeled off eight consecutive points to complete an 11-8 victory and ignite celebrations inside the arena.
“From yesterday to today, I feel like I’ve been reborn,” Liang said afterward. “To come back from 2-0 down in two matches at a team world championships means a lot to me. I’m proud that I never gave up.”
World No. 1 Wang Chuqin then overcame rising Japanese talent Sora Matsushima in four games. After losing the opener, Wang steadied himself to win three straight games and put China within one point of the title.
“I think Liang’s victory gave all of us confidence,” Wang said. “Even after losing the first game, I stayed calm because the team spirit was already there.”
Lin Shidong sealed China’s victory after defeating Shunsuke Togami in four games in the third rubber. The young Chinese player celebrated wildly after securing the winning point, leaping onto the table as teammates rushed onto the court.
Lin revealed that coaches and team officials had encouraged him following his semifinal defeat against France and continued to trust him in the final.
China has won all men’s team world titles since 2001. (Xinhua)