by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Manager

Japan’s Masataka Morizono and Mima Ito, the top seeds, beat Lim Jonghoon and Yang Haeun, the no.7 seeds (11-7, 12-10, 11-5); China’s Lin Gaoyuan and Chen Xingtong, the no.6 seeds accounted for Lee Sangsu and Jeon Jihee (11-3, 11-7, 4-11, 11-8).

A notable win for the Chinese duo; Lee Sangsu is arguably the player with the greatest success in the event; at the Liebherr 2013 World Championships in Paris, he was the runner up in partnership with colleague Park Youngsook.

“It was quite a tough match. Our opponents were competitive but we were prepared and tried to attack their weaknesses; that was why we had a good first game. However, we did have some difficulties in the middle, we are glad to win. We were a bit sloppy in the third game but we adjusted quickly in the fourth and refocused, this allowed to win in the end.” Lin Gaoyuan

Success for Lin Gaoyuan on what is a busy day. Earlier partnering Fan Zhendong, he had emerged successful in his Men’s Doubles semi-final encounter, now he has done the same in the Mixed Doubles; the Men’s Singles awaits.

“I must try to have enough rest, recover and keep myself in a good condition.” Lin Gaoyuan

Most certainly it would seem that the highly talented Lin Gaoyuan is in form; Chen Xingtong was clearly delighted with his contribution.

“He played well; the game we lost will help us with the matches to come. I am not doing anything special to prepare. We have played before together and I think our teamwork will only get better. We make sure we are always well prepared and adjusted for every match. We started the match with something different, so that the opponents could not adapt and made mistakes. I think I was more involved today. “ Chen Xingtong

The final is scheduled for 3.00 pm (local time) on Saturday 2nd June.