Zhang Yining, the number one seed in the Women's Singles event at the Champion of Champions tournament in Changsha took no prisoners on Wednesday.

In the final she beat her doubles partner and Chinese national team colleague, Wang Nan, in four straight games. Zhang Yining won 11-9, 11-7, 11-8, 11-4; gaining in strength and self-confidence as the one-sided duel unfolded.

Wang Nan and Zhang Yining have met many times in international events with the balance of power being in favour of Zhang Yining. However, few of her victories have been as comfortable as this.

"I didn't expect to win that easily, I'm really very surprised", explained Zhang Yining who had given an absolutely faultless performance.

"Wang Nan played extremely well to beat Guo Yan in the semis; that was a tough opponent for her", added Zhang Yining. "I think this is the most comfortable win I've ever had over Wang Nan."

When Wang Nan plays a fight-back is expected; she's recovered from impossible situations time and again in her illustrious career but the miracle recovery left her this time. Simply, the superb Zhang Yining was in control from start to finish.

"I played quickly in the rallies today and I tried to make her move", explained Zhang Yining. "I tried to use to the angles as much as possible and I think as the match progressed she became tired."

The reigning Olympic and World champion was imperious and having won the Women's Singles title at the Volkswagen Pro Tour Grand Finals and now having been crowned the `Champion of Champions', she is full of confidence for the future.

In 2007 she will defend her Women's Singles World title in Zagreb, Croatia before seeking to retain her Olympic crown at home in 2008. Judging by her performance in Changsha she is the favourite to retain both titles; if she does she will reach the firmament of table tennis legends.

(China Daily via ITTF December 21, 2006)