Underdog Zhou ends China's table tennis simulation in heroic fashion

"I had not expected it (the champion). From group phase to quarterfinals, semifinals and the final, I competed against many outstanding players, so I just went all out in every game," said Zhou. "I played 120% of my level in this competition."

Fan admitted he made adjustments a bit slow. "I got the initiative on many occasions, but I failed to make it. Then I became a bit hesitant and gave much space to him to attack."

Ma kind of got consolation by rounding out the podium with a 12-10, 5-11, 11-9, 11-9 victory over Wang Chuqin.

"I had a better control on crucial points," said Ma. "We haven't played any competitive match for almost half a year, and staging this competition is quite necessary for our Olympic preparation."