Félix Lebrun Surges into Beijing Grand Smash Semis, Eyes Historic Final berth
Beijing, China – the electrifying world of table tennis is buzzing as French phenom Félix Lebrun, currently ranked world number 7, has punched his ticket to the semifinals of the prestigious Grand Smash in Beijing. Lebrun showcased his mettle on Friday,overcoming a spirited challenge from China’s Chen Jusens in a thrilling six-set victory (11-6,12-10,7-11,9-11,11-5,12-10).
this marks the second time this season the 19-year-old prodigy from Montpellier has reached the final four of a Grand Smash event, the pinnacle of the international table tennis circuit. His previous deep run came in July, where he narrowly lost a hard-fought semifinal match to China’s Wang Chuqin in Las Vegas. Now, Lebrun has his sights set on a new challenge: world number 2 Lin Shidong on Sunday, with a coveted spot in the championship match on the line.
A Tense Battle, A Crucial Momentum Shift
The path to the semifinals wasn’t a walk in the park for Lebrun. Under the watchful eyes of his older brother Alexis and father Stéphane, a former professional player himself, Lebrun had to dig deep against Chen Jusens. The 20-year-old Chinese underdog,ranked a surprising 113th in the world,had already pulled off a major upset by eliminating world number 4 Tomokazu Harimoto in the first round and later bested Frenchman Thibault Pore.
While Lebrun started strong, Chen Jusens, fueled by a passionate home crowd, mounted a significant comeback, leveling the match at two games apiece.it was a pivotal moment, akin to a crucial fourth-quarter surge in a basketball game, that could have swung the momentum decisively. However, Lebrun demonstrated remarkable composure, seizing control in the fifth set and ultimately avoiding the upset.
Yes Félix! The Frenchman is in the semi-finals of China Smash !!! Very spicy festivity: air conditioning! Next round: Lin Shidong. Tchôôôôô !!! pic.twitter.com/J2eZSZLm5K
– RMC Sport (@RMCsport) October 3, 2025
– RMC Sport
The victory was met with palpable excitement, as captured in a celebratory tweet from RMC Sport, highlighting Lebrun’s “spicy celebration” and anticipation for his next showdown.
What’s Next for the Young French Star?
Lebrun’s journey to this Grand Smash semifinal is a testament to his rapid advancement and growing prowess on the international stage. Facing Lin Shidong, a player known for his remarkable skill and consistency, will undoubtedly be Lebrun’s toughest test yet.
Sports enthusiasts will be keenly watching to see if Lebrun can replicate his recent success and continue his ascent. A victory against Lin Shidong would not only propel him into his first Grand Smash final but also solidify his position as a major contender for future major titles. The Grand Smash in Beijing continues to be a proving ground for the next generation of table tennis superstars, and Félix Lebrun is undoubtedly at the forefront.
