Who won the first women's singles Table Tennis World Cup in 1996?

Deng Yaping won the first women's singles Table Tennis World Cup in 1996.

The inaugural women's World Cup was staged in Hong Kong in 1996. Deng Yaping, then one of the dominant players in international table tennis, defeated fellow Chinese player Yang Ying in the final. Her victory made her the first champion of the women’s edition of the event.

Deng’s success was built on exceptional speed, compact technique, and aggressive play close to the table. Although she was relatively short for an elite athlete, her rapid footwork and powerful forehand made her difficult to attack.

The women’s World Cup is separate from the women’s singles event at the World Championships and from Olympic competition. Deng had already won major titles before 1996 and later added Olympic and World Championship victories, making her one of the sport’s most decorated players.