Chinese Finish Dominating Run

China completed its sweep of gold medals in table tennis when Kong Linghui won the men’s singles on Monday, but it also marked the first time at the Sydney Game that China failed to sweep gold and silver.

Linghui defeated Jan-Ove Waldner of Sweden, 21-16, 21-19, 17-21, 14-21, 21-13, in the final.

“The key to my winning today was my good returns of service,” Kong said.

Although his countryman, Liu Guoliang, captured the bronze instead of making all four finals a Chinese affair, Kong said China’s effort was rewarding.

“It has boosted our confidence overall,” Kong said.

Wang Nan beat countrywoman Li Ju in the women’s singles final. The two paired up to beat the Chinese team of Sun Jin and Yang Ying in doubles.

Kong and Liu earned the silver medal in men’s doubles, losing to teammates Wang Liqin and Yan Sen.

France won bronze in men’s doubles, Jing Chen of Taiwan was third in women’s singles and a South Korean team took bronze in women’s doubles.