Ding sets up All-Chinese final in Olympics with win over DPRK chopper

Ding Ning of China plays against Kim Song I of North Korea during their women's singles table tennis semifinal during the Rio Olympics, Aug 10, 2016. [Photo/Agencies]

RIO DE JANEIRO - Twice table tennis world champion Ding Ning defeated her second straight defensive opponent Kim Song-I of DPR Korea here on Wednesday to set up an All-Chinese women's singles final with teammate Li Xiaoxia in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

Ding and Li's final encounter will be the first time in the sport's 28-year history since entering the Olympic programs that the same two players entered the singles final in back-to-back Olympic Games.

Extremely patient against the defensive player, Ding overcame Kim 11-5, 9-11, 11-6, 11-3, 11-9.