The Prince of Tennis Episode 31 Recap
> The Prince of Tennis Recap
The Yuqing High School tennis team prepares for their crucial match against Xingyao High, with only two days remaining. A major concern looms over the team: Captain Mu Siyang is suffering from a severe hand injury. Qiao Chen, after learning Mu Siyang and Zhuo Zhi were secretly training together, reveals the extent of Mu Siyang's injury to Lu Xia, noting his unsuitability to play against Xingyao's Ji Jingwu.
Despite the coach's efforts to arrange overseas treatment for his injury, Mu Siyang firmly refuses, determined not to abandon his teammates or their shared dream of entering the national league, especially after their defeat to Xingyao last year. The team, initially hesitant, confronts Mu Siyang, hoping to persuade him to prioritize his recovery.
However, Mu Siyang inspires them with his unwavering resolve, pledging to lead them to victory and promising to play no more than thirty minutes if necessary, to protect his hand. Moved by his determination, the team vows to secure the win before Mu Siyang even needs to step onto the court. In preparation, Zhang Baiyang and Yan Zhiming refine their doubles strategy, displaying a growing unspoken understanding despite their surface-level disagreements.
Tang Jiale, having matured, apologizes to Chi Dayong for past pressures, reinforcing Chi Dayong's confidence in his progress. Recognizing Lu Xia's potential, substitute Huang Jing selflessly offers his spot to Lu Xia for the team's benefit, a decision Mu Siyang eventually approves. On match day, the atmosphere is electric. The first match is the second doubles, featuring Zhang Baiyang and Yan Zhiming against Xingyao's Hu Liangliang and Feng Zhiyuan. Xingyao's players start strong, their unexpected tactics nullifying Yuqing's practiced serves.
Zhang Baiyang employs a deceptive tactic, feigning an argument with Yan Zhiming to buy time for Yan Zhiming to collect crucial data on their opponents. Although they manage to mount a strong comeback, Yan Zhiming's unwavering integrity leads him to honestly call out a borderline out ball, requesting a replay, which ultimately leads to their defeat. Despite the loss, their spirit and sportsmanship are highly praised.
A sudden emergency strikes when Chi Dayong injures his wrist while helping a pregnant woman, rendering him unable to play. Coach Qi Na quickly reorganizes, pairing Qiao Chen with Tang Jiale for the next doubles match. Tang Jiale, initially apprehensive, finds renewed confidence seeing Chi Dayong's wristband on Qiao Chen's hand.
