The Prince of Tennis Episode 26 Recap
> The Prince of Tennis Recap
Yan Zhiming thoroughly analyzes Sixth Middle School, noting their players' exceptional execution and their legendary coach, "Grandpa Liu," who uses a uniquely designed long racket. Yan Zhiming even fabricates a dramatic story about Grandpa Liu's past to emphasize his mystique. Meanwhile, the "Golden Partners" Tang Jiale and Chi Dayong face a crisis as their signature telepathy seems to vanish. Tang Jiale senses the shift, but Chi Dayong tries to hide it.
Coach Qi Na observes their poor performance in practice, especially when they lose to the newly paired Qiao Chen and He Xinglong. Concerned, Qi Na decides to split the "Golden Partners." Tang Jiale protests, but Chi Dayong, after hearing Qi Na's reasoning, reluctantly agrees. An announcement confirms Tang Jiale will now partner with Zhuo Zhi.
Chi Dayong retreats to a solitary space to reflect, while Tang Jiale reassures him that their bond as "golden partners" remains eternal despite the temporary separation. The team atmosphere grows solemn, prompting everyone to intensify their training. Lu Xia struggles with his powerful shots, finding himself unable to meet his goals despite changing his style. Zhang Baiyang's continuous use of his stamina-draining "snake shot" also raises concerns.
He Xinglong pushes himself relentlessly, refusing to rest, valuing every remaining opportunity to compete. The Provincial High School Tennis League commences with the highly anticipated match between Yuqing and Sixth Middle. Despite Yuqing's initial cool demeanor upon entry, Sixth Middle's vibrant energy slightly overshadows them, prompting Qi Na to urge her team to maintain full focus.
Qiao Chen and He Xinglong play first in the second doubles match, quickly forming a strong partnership and securing Yuqing's first victory, an "opening red." Next, Tang Jiale and Zhuo Zhi take the court for the first doubles. As Tang Jiale's stamina wanes, Zhuo Zhi executes a seemingly impossible "Flying Swallow Returns to Nest" shot, providing Tang Jiale with crucial time to recover.
They ultimately win the match, further intensifying Chi Dayong's self-doubt about his ability to provide such strong support. Zhuo Zhi later comforts Chi Dayong, explaining that the true strength of a partnership lies in mutual belief, not just tacit understanding. Before the singles matches, Lu Xia encounters Grandpa Liu again at a vending machine. Grandpa Liu takes Lu Xia's chosen drink and offers him another, subtly advising Lu Xia to be open to new attempts and experiences. Zhang Baiyang prepares for his singles match against a quirky and highly energetic Sixth Middle player known for his pre-match backflips.
