Hina Hayata’s Evolution: Strengthening Defense and Backhand to Take on China in May!

Adopting a new style

The nation’s unrivaled ace has shown remarkable progress.

On March 8, Paris Olympic individual bronze medalist Hina Hayata (24) competed in a T-League match against Kyushu Astida. For Hayata, who is set to embark on an overseas tour, this was her final league match of the season. Though she struggled at times against a defensive-style opponent, she secured a solid 3-1 victory.

Former Japan national team table tennis player and commentator Hiroko Fujii did not overlook the fact that Hayata had overcome her previous weaknesses.

“Compared to her dominant forehand, her backhand and defensive accuracy, which were considered vulnerabilities, have significantly improved. She now defends with block shots and counters with her backhand, seamlessly transitioning into her forehand attacks. Since injuring her left arm at last summer’s Paris Olympics, Hayata has been aware that her rivals recognize her backhand as a weak point. It seems she has been strengthening it in anticipation of being targeted.”

Though known for her offensive prowess, Hayata has now begun incorporating a new style that allows her to neutralize opponents defensively as well.

“Her injury has improved, and compared to last summer, she has clearly expanded her playing range, leaving no gaps in her game. At the World Championships in May, she will undoubtedly defeat Chinese opponents like Sun Yingsha (24), who bested her in Paris,” said a sports newspaper editor.

Determined to achieve her long-cherished goal of becoming the world champion, Hayata will not stop moving forward.

From “FRIDAY”, March 28, 2025 issue.