by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

It was a brave effort by Kubrat Korkut who had won silver in Women’s Singles Class 6-10 in London, alongside colleagues Neslihan Kavas and Umran Ertis but on the early afternoon of the sixth day of play, she was competing in her first ever Paralympic Games Women’s Singles final.

Nothing New

Appearing in such a final was special but it was nothing new for Kelly Van Zon.

In addition to winning gold four years ago in London; she had won the Women’s Singles Class 7 title at the European Championships in 2011 and 2015, as well as at the World Championships in 2011 and 20125.

“The win might have looked comfortable but I assure you it was not; it was a tough match; I had watched Kubra very closely during the tournament so I knew the tactics to follow”, said Kelly Van Zon. “I decided to play towards her forehand as much as possible; I think today my service was good and I was strong from my backhand”

Amazing atmosphere

Tactically Kelly Van Zon proved astute and understandably delighted with her performance.

“It’s great to win, was this better than when I won in London four years ago I really don’t know; I must say that everything here has been well organised and there has been a great atmosphere, the crowd has been amazing.”

Bronze for Korea

Success for the Netherlands; in the bronze medal contest, it was success for Korea.

Kim Seongok beat Canada’s Stephanie Chan to reserve a place on the podium.