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Iranian prodigy Faraji throws down gauntlet at global stars
Faraji, 14, stole all the headlines when he came from behind to stun Chinese world No. 1 Wang Chuqin 3-2 (11-8, 3-11, 9-11, 13-11, 11-9) earlier in October – the sole victory for Iran during a last-eight loss in the men’s team event.
“I was mentally and physically ready for every challenge coming my way before heading to the tournament,” said the Iranian, adding: “The atmosphere of the venue was intense. The Chinese federation had brought a huge crowd, who was absolutely electric throughout the contest. But I was fully prepared for the match.”
“I don’t feel too much pressure when taking on East Asian players. I just focus on my own game and that’s what I did to come out victorious against such a world-class player,” added the Iranian, who is fourth in the latest men’s world under-15 ranking.
“I knew before the match a victory would be a massive breakthrough for me. No-one really expected me to win, but I still played with full confidence and determination. Beating a world and Olympic champion was like a mission impossible for a 14-year-old Iranian, and I am so thrilled to have claimed a milestone triumph.”
Faraji came within touching distance of another major upset in Astana, going neck-and-neck with world number two Lin Shidong, before relinquishing a six-point lead in the deciding game to suffer a 3-2 defeat against the Chinese the men’s singles competitions.
“I had a decent performance against him, but I was just unlucky. Shidong is a great player. He had defeated his high-profile counterpart Ma Long before the tournament and made the most of his experience to beat me. I really regretted the loss, though the Chinese coach came to congratulate me on my performance after the match.”
Faraji’s sensational campaign at the Asian Championships saw the Iranian jump up by 33 spots at the latest ITTF World Ranking to sit 177th in the men’s singles chart.
The Iranian says he is keen on playing in the top European and Asian leagues in the future.
“To play in the German or French leagues will be a massive privilege for me as I will get the chance to square off against some of the world’s best and improve my game in those two prominent events,” Faraji said.
The young Iranian boy is full of gratitude for his father, who “played a pivotal role in my affection for table tennis when I was just five.”
Asked about his ultimate goal in the sport, Faraji said: “Playing in the Olympics, and not just to participate, but to win a medal. I love to see table tennis take the center stage for Iran at the Olympics, just like wrestling does. I wish I can play Ma Long some day and beat him for the Olympic gold.”