PARIS, JULY 27 :  In a blistering display of table tennis prowess, India’s Harmeet Desai won his preliminary match in a mere 30 minutes, dismantling Jordan’s Zaid Abo Yaman with a commanding 4-0 victory (11-7, 11-9, 11-5, 11-5) at the Paris 2024 Olympics on Saturday.

Desai, a 31-year-old veteran and two-time Commonwealth Games gold medallist, made his intentions clear from the outset. He seized the first game 11-7 in just six minutes, fueled by a relentless five-point streak. Despite Abo Yaman’s efforts to mount a comeback in the second game, Desai’s precision and aggressive play led him to a narrow 11-9 win.

The third and fourth games were dominated by Desai’s unyielding serves and strategic play, wrapping up both 11-5. His formidable performance throughout the match showcased his dominance and tactical superiority, finishing with a decisive five-point run.

Desai now moves on to the round of 64, where he will face Felix Lebrun of France at the South Paris Arena on Sunday. He will be joined by India’s Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony co-flag-bearer Sharath Kamal, who will compete against Slovenia’s Deni Kozul.(UNI)