Ahmedabad, India – June 7, 2025 – In a thrilling encounter at the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 6, India’s rising star Yashaswini Ghorpade, representing U Mumba TT, delivered a stunning performance to become the first player this season to defeat China’s Fan Siqi. The 20-year-old’s fearless play was instrumental in U Mumba TT’s 9-6 victory over Stanley’s Chennai Lions.
The Unbeaten Streak Broken
Fan Siqi, a formidable Chinese paddler ranked World No. 35 with two WTT titles and a career-high rank of 11, had been undefeated coming into this match. Her consistent dominance had made her a feared opponent in the league, making Ghorpade’s triumph all the more significant.
A Battle of Nerves: Ghorpade’s Remarkable Comeback
The match was a true test of mental fortitude. Ghorpade started strong, dominating the opening game with an impressive 11-5 score. However, Fan Siqi, known for her resilience, fought back fiercely, leading 2-7 and then 8-10 in the decisive third game. It was at this crucial juncture that Yashaswini Ghorpade showcased incredible composure, reeling off three straight points to seal the game 11-10 on a Golden Point. This epic comeback not only secured the individual win but also handed Fan Siqi her first defeat of the season.
Impact on the Tie and Team Standings
Yashaswini’s win provided a massive boost to U Mumba TT, setting a strong foundation for their overall victory against Stanley’s Chennai Lions. The momentum from her upset was carried forward by her teammates, contributing to U Mumba’s 9-6 win and helping them climb to second in the league table.
Ghorpade’s remarkable performance highlights her potential as a future star in Indian table tennis. Her ability to challenge and overcome a seasoned international player like Fan Siqi signals a growing strength in the Indian contingent and offers great promise for the sport in the country. This upset, alongside Jeet Chandra’s earlier win over World No. 34 Ricardo Walther, underscores the increasing competitiveness and talent emerging from the UTT Season 6.
