We all knew it was too good to last. With many of the world's top players gathered under one roof for the 2020 Chinese Super League, including nearly all of China's national team, tough competition was a foregone conclusion. The only question was which of the nine women's and nine men's teams would emerge on top. On the women's side, an intrepid group of internationals led by the USA's Lily Zhang made a valiant run in the qualifying round-robin. Ultimately, the "ITTF World Professionals" (a.k.a. "Team Koala") could not overcome the relentless barrage of domestic talent, finishing in sixth place as the top four graduated to the playoff semifinals. The first semi saw first-place Shandong Luneng make quick work of the 5-3 Beijing Yuekailong. The 8-0 Shandong, led by Wang Manyu who thus far has gone 11-2 in individual matches, did not drop a match against the 5-3 Beijing. The other semifinal was much more dramatic, requiring the maximum five matches, but ultimately the favored Shenzhen University Club (7-1) prevailed over Heilongjiang Huaxin Yonggang (5-3). Shenzhen University is led by world #1 Chen Meng, owner of a 10-2 individual record, and Sun Yingsha, even better at 11-2. Tomorrow's final against the undefeated Shandong Luneng team promises to be a clash of the titans. Meanwhile, over in the gentlemen's draw, the lone international player has certainly made his trip worthwhile. Lin Yun-Ju of Taiwan joined the Shandong Weiqiao club (6-2), helping teammate Liang Jingkun upset Shantou Mingrun (7-1) in the first semifinal. Liang is an MVP candidate with an individual record of 14-1. Shandong Weiqiao now awaits the winner of the other semifinal between Shandong Luneng (8-0) and Shanghai Real Estate Group (5-3). While the latter boasts world #2 Xu Xin, it is Shandong Luneng who employs the hottest player on the planet right now. Overshadowing his legendary team captain Ma Long, it is Wang Chuqin who has posted a league-best 14-0 record. In tomorrow's finals, the last championships of 2020 will be won. Whoever wins, it is a victory for the sport itself to safely stage such a stellar symphony.

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