China's world number one loses at Olympics after table tennis bat broken

Wang Chuqin, the world number one in table tennis from China, experienced an unexpected defeat in the men's Olympic singles on Wednesday, just a day after his bat was damaged.

On Tuesday, Wang celebrated winning the mixed doubles gold in Paris, but his joy quickly turned to frustration when a photographer inadvertently broke his bat while attempting to capture a moment.

In the singles event, Wang was eliminated in the round of 32 following a 4-2 loss to Sweden's 26th-ranked player, Truls Moregard.

Moregard, aged 22, was visibly stunned by his victory and took a moment to acknowledge the crowd, who responded with applause.

This series of events marked a tumultuous couple of days for Wang.

Alongside his partner Sun Yingsha, he triumphed over North Korea in the mixed doubles final on Tuesday, yet Wang expressed that he "lost control of my emotions a little" after the incident with his bat.

"I couldn't comprehend why the photographers would act in that manner," he remarked afterward.

"I suppose they did not intend any harm. There is nothing I can do now that it has occurred.

"I have confidence that I will perform well with my backup bat."

Wang is set to participate in the men's team event next.

The incident transpired when Wang temporarily set his paddle down to raise the Chinese flag in celebration, as reported by those present.

China has established itself as a dominant force in table tennis, arriving in the French capital with an impressive record of 32 gold medals out of 37 available since the sport was introduced to the Olympics.