Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto defeated Macau’s Mak Tin Ian 3-0 (11-2, 11-2, 11-2) in the opening round of 32 at WTT Champions Macao 2026 yesterday, as the local player made his debut at the tournament. The event is being held at the Macao East Asian Games Dome in Cotai between yesterday and Sunday.
WTT stands for World Table Tennis.
Speaking to the media afterwards, Harimoto, ranked number four in the world, said he approaches the tournament in the same way as other competitions, with the aim of winning the championship.
When asked about Mak, Harimoto said that they are around the same age. He also recalled seeing Mak play earlier this year and noted that the local player was experienced and well prepared. Harimoto said he hoped to face Mak again in the future and wished him the best. Both are in their early 20s.
Harimoto also reflected on his recent performances, saying he has been trying to improve “a little bit every day” both on and off the court. When asked whether he had made significant changes following previous championships, Harimoto said he did not think so, although he suggested he may have matured and changed somewhat physically.
For Mak, the match provided an opportunity to measure himself against one of the world’s leading players. He said he felt uncomfortable with the rhythm of the match and struggled to impose his game against Harimoto’s tactics. “My advantage lies in my backhand,” Mak said. “But when I played at the table [this time], I was not used to the rhythm of the game,” he added.
Despite the 0-3 scoreline, Mak said the experience would help him identify areas for improvement, particularly his backhand. He said he would study new techniques and strengthen that part of his game before a potential rematch.
Speaking to the Post, Mak said he did not feel there was a specific turning point because he had been forced to play under pressure from the beginning. He said that the biggest lesson was to value every point against a top-level opponent.
“It’s not easy to get a point against a top-tier player, so I cherished every point I got,” Mak said. He also described representing Macau at a WTT Champions event as an honour, saying he had learnt from Harimoto’s technique, playing style and training methods.
“I’m very grateful to represent Macau. I’m very grateful to WTT for giving me the opportunity to participate in this tournament,” he said.
The defeat ended Mak’s men’s singles journey, but he noted that the experience had exposed areas he intends to improve. He also expressed his desire for another opportunity to face Harimoto and demonstrate that progress.
Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto (left) and Macau’s Mak Tin Ian compete during the WTT Champions Macao 2026 at the Macao East Asian Games Dome in Cotai yesterday. – Photos: Khalel Vallo
Mak Tin Ian speaks to the Post after yesterday’s match.
