Taiwan’s rising stars in table tennis, Lin Yun-ju (林昀儒) and Kao Cheng-jui (高承睿), have stormed into the men’s doubles final at the 2025 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, delivering a monumental performance by toppling world No. 1 French duo Alexis and Felix Lebrun. Their victory is not just a win on the scoreboard—it is a symbolic resurgence of Taiwan’s presence in global table tennis, echoing the nation’s golden legacy last witnessed in 2013.
🇹🇼 The Match That Shook the Rankings
Seeded sixth, Lin and Kao entered the semifinals as underdogs against the top-seeded Lebrun brothers, who are celebrated for their synchronized rhythm and aggressive counterplay. However, Taiwan’s pair stunned the spectators at Lusail Sports Arena by taking the first two games 11-8 and 11-7, setting the tone early with controlled aggression and tactical precision.
The French pair briefly bounced back, snatching the third game 9-11 and then gaining a 3-point lead in the fourth. But in a display of nerves and resilience, Lin and Kao clawed their way back, eventually winning the fourth game 12-10, closing out the match in 36.5 minutes.
“We didn’t think too much. Just focused on keeping the score close, point by point,” said Lin, reflecting the duo’s calm under pressure.
🔍 Strategic Masterclass on the Table
According to the ITTF post-match analysis, Lin and Kao demonstrated “a well-balanced strategy”—an essential dynamic in modern doubles play. Kao’s backcourt explosiveness complemented Lin’s table-side finesse, enabling them to counter the Lebruns’ offensive surges.
This synergy is especially impressive considering the duo only teamed up in early 2025. They previously captured attention with a second-place finish at the Singapore Smash, signaling their fast-track rise.
🎯 Eyes on the Title – Facing Japan’s Best
Lin and Kao are now set to compete against Japan’s world No. 2 pair Hiroto Shinozuka and Shunsuke Togami in the final on Sunday, May 26. This matchup will be a test of adaptability and endurance, as both teams thrive on fast-paced exchanges and mental tenacity.
“We’ll go all out for the final tomorrow,” said Kao, exuding determination.
Should Lin and Kao win, it would mark only the second-ever men’s doubles gold for Taiwan, following the historic 2013 victory by Chuang Chih-yuan and Chen Chien-an.
🔙 The Broader Significance
Lin Yun-ju, already an Olympic bronze medalist from Tokyo 2020 (mixed doubles with Cheng I-ching), has become a symbol of Taiwan’s new era in table tennis. Kao Cheng-jui, just 20 years old, is emerging as a formidable athlete who brings youthful energy and explosive style.
This championship run also reflects Taiwan’s continued investment in its table tennis program—balancing the development of veterans and young talent, encouraging international exposure, and building a foundation that could elevate the country into a sustained global contender.
❓FAQs
Who are Lin Yun-ju and Kao Cheng-jui?
Lin is a 23-year-old Taiwanese table tennis star and Olympic bronze medalist; Kao is a 20-year-old rising talent. They’ve teamed up recently and are making waves in global competitions.
Who did they defeat in the semifinals?
They beat the world No. 1 pair—French brothers Alexis and Felix Lebrun.
What was the final score in the semifinal match?
They won 11-8, 11-7, 9-11, 12-10 in a four-game showdown lasting 36.5 minutes.
Who will they face in the final?
They will face Japan’s world No. 2 duo, Hiroto Shinozuka and Shunsuke Togami.
What is the significance of this match for Taiwan?
If victorious, it would be Taiwan’s second-ever gold medal in men’s doubles at a World Championship, after their first in 2013.
