Harimoto hails new era as Japan dethrone table tennis kings China

Nagoya: Tomokazu Harimoto announced Japan had overcome their inferiority complex following their victory over China in the men's table tennis team final, ending China's 32-year reign as Asian Games champions. China had dominated the event at every Asian Games since 1994. In the decisive match, Sora Matsushima defeated Wen Ruibo 3-2.

Japan's team included Harimoto, whose Chinese heritage helped him overcome his sense of inferiority. "That we beat them was proof that we had lacked confidence before," Harimoto said, adding that he felt a sense of relief for the team. China's team, featuring world number one Wang Chuqin, had historically been strong, with six or seven players ranking in the top five.

However, Harimoto believes that the new generation, with two players in the world top five, can achieve results like this. Harimoto avoided watching the final from the bench, possibly due to superstition.