China won both the men's and women's singles titles ©JTTA

Sun Yingsha stunned Chinese team-mate and world number five Chen Meng to clinch the women's singles title at the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Japan Open today.

The 16-year-old marked her first competitive senior event with a superb victory as she overcame Chen 9-11, 11-9, 8-11, 8-11, 11-7, 11-9, 11-8 in a thrilling battle at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium.

China were guaranteed to clinch both gold medals on the last day of the tournament, with reigning Olympic and world champion Ma Long taking the men's crown by ousting Fan Zhendong 11-7, 5-11, 11-7, 11-8, 11-5.

But the plaudits undoubtedly belonged to Sun, who booked her place in the final by beating qualifier and compatriot Wang Manyu 16-14, 11-9, 14-12, 11-7.

Chen also looked in good form in her last four clash as she swept aside Han Ying of Germany 11-7, 11-8, 11-8, 7-11, 11-5.

Sun started slowly and dropped the opening game of the final against her team-mate and was one away from losing when Chen edged 3-1 in front.

The youngster then showed a determination which belied her tender years, fighting back from the brink of defeat to seal the title, her second of the event after she won the women's doubles gold medal alongside Chen Xingtong yesterday.

Sun Yungsha stunned Chinese team-mate and world number five Chen Meng to clinch the women's singles title ©ITTF
Sun Yungsha stunned Chinese team-mate and world number five Chen Meng to clinch the women's singles title ©ITTF

"I'm excited about winning this, especially having to come back from three-one down at the start," said Sun. 

"It had never crossed my mind that I could win both the women’s singles and women’s doubles gold here in Tokyo. 

"I think because it’s my first senior event, so I have no pressure or mental burden on myself."

Ma justified his status as the pre-tournament favourite as the top seed proved too strong for Fan, who was unable to defend his title.

"Of course I’m feeling very happy about this title, my first Japan Open singles title," said Ma. 

"I finished second 10 years ago, so it feels great that I finally broke this curse. 

"I'm pleased with my performance today, especially because we just finished the World Championships, and everyone’s tired from all the action."

The formidable Chinese player secured his spot in the final with a 5-11, 13-11, 11-6, 5-11, 11-5, 11-5 win over team-mate Xu Xin.

Fan ended Japanese hopes at the last four stage, accounting for Jun Mizutani with a 11-7, 11-6, 12-10, 9-11, 11-8 success.