The final day at WTT Contender Taiyuan 2025 delivered two standout performances as Japan’s Honoka Hashimoto and Sora Matsushima both claimed their first-ever WTT Contender Series titles—each in dominant and dramatic fashion.
Hashimoto Shines Against Former World No. 1 Zhu Yuling
Honoka Hashimoto put on a tactical masterclass in the Women’s Singles final, overpowering China’s Zhu Yuling in straight games 4-0 (11-8, 11-5, 11-8, 11-5). Facing a player once ranked No. 1 in the world, the 25-year-old Japanese star showed no signs of nerves, dictating play from the outset.
Zhu had impressed throughout the tournament with strong wins over top seeds including Qian Tianyi (1), Sakura Yokoi (8), and Chen Yi (4)—a run that suggested she was rediscovering her former dominance. But in the final, she struggled to find answers to Hashimoto’s relentless pressure and smart variation. The match lasted just 38 minutes, with Hashimoto scoring 44 winners to Zhu’s 26, clearly showcasing the difference in execution.
Matsushima Outlasts An Jaehyun in Seven-Game Thriller
On the men’s side, 17-year-old Sora Matsushima completed a dream week with another upset—this time taking down the tournament’s top seed, An Jaehyun, in a pulsating 4-3 (11-9, 8-11, 11-4, 8-11, 11-8, 5-11, 12-10) showdown.
After a rollercoaster exchange of games, it all came down to a deciding seventh set. An launched a late comeback from 4-9 down to tie the game at 9-9, but Matsushima held his nerve and sealed victory 12-10, capping off a performance full of grit and composure beyond his years.
Earlier, Matsushima had shocked Xiang Peng in the semifinals to reach just his second final at WTT Series level. His title win in Taiyuan marks a significant milestone in his young career and signals his rising potential on the world stage.
Final Results – WTT Contender Taiyuan 2025
Women’s Singles Final
Honoka Hashimoto (JPN) def. Zhu Yuling (CHN) – 4-0 (11-8, 11-5, 11-8, 11-5)
Men’s Singles Final
Sora Matsushima (JPN) def. An Jaehyun (KOR) – 4-3 (11-9, 8-11, 11-4, 8-11, 11-8, 5-11, 12-10)
Photo Source: WTT