Zhang Jike sealed a remarkable hat-trick of major titles when he beat fellow Chinese Wang Hao 4-2 in the men's final of the world championships at Bercy on Monday.
Zhang, who had already beaten Wang in the 2011 World championships final and the Olympic final last year, prevailed 11-7, 11-8, 6-11, 14-12, 5-11, 11-7 on his first match-point.
"It was a tough match," the 25-year-old Zhang told French TV Channel L'Equipe 21 after running towards the stands to hug his parents in a rare display of emotion. "I will try to make history. I have won all the titles already and I want to do it again," he added, confirming he was looking to take part in the 2016 Olympic Games.
It is the fifth time in a row that the men's singles title was won by a Chinese player since 2003.
Published 20 May 2013, 18:11 IST