South Korean men's table tennis ace Jang Woo-jin (SeAH) has written a new chapter in table tennis history, securing his first-ever World Table Tennis (WTT) Champions title, a first for South Korean table tennis.

In the men's singles final of the 2026 WTT Champions Montpellier held in Montpellier, France, Jang triumphed 4-3 in a grueling 1-hour and 4-minute battle against Germany's Patrick Franziska to claim the championship.

Earlier in the semifinals held on the same day local time, Jang defeated Brazil's Hugo Calderano 4-3, also mounting a comeback victory to advance to the final.

He then set a milestone in South Korean table tennis history with a thrilling comeback victory in the final.

Jang previously reached the final at the WTT Champions Doha last January, following Lee Sang-su who reached the final of the WTT Champions Incheon in April of last year, making him the second South Korean ever to reach a WTT Champions final. In just his second appearance in a final, he achieved the feat of winning the championship.

Jang struggled against Franziska's powerful backhand attacks, falling behind 1-3 in game score and pushing him to the brink of elimination.

His concentration shone through in the moment of crisis.

Jang began his chase by winning the last two points from a 9-9 tie in the fifth game.

In the sixth game as well, he pressured Franziska, spearheaded by his powerful forehand attacks.

Even though the arena was filled with cheers overwhelmingly favoring his European opponent, Jang did not waver.

In the final, decisive seventh game where there was no room for retreat, Jang engaged in a fiercely contested battle with Franziska, with neither side giving an inch.

Leading 8-9, Jang successfully executed a powerful forehand attack piercing the corner during a long rally to secure a championship point.

He then claimed the final point to secure the victory 11-8.

As victory was confirmed, Jang collapsed onto the court, clenched his fists, and a smile spread across his face.
(Photo: Getty Images)