WTT Launches New Entity to Boost Table Tennis in India

WTT India: A New Era for Table Tennis

In a groundbreaking initiative for table tennis in India, World Table Tennis (WTT) has introduced WTT Event Management India Private Limited, referred to as 'WTT India'. This new organization aims to host premier international events, enhance opportunities for Indian athletes, and foster deeper connections with fans and commercial partners throughout the nation.

This establishment is a pivotal move in WTT's goal to broaden the sport's reach globally while nurturing robust local frameworks. WTT India will act as the cornerstone for elite and junior-level competitions and athlete development, bringing professional table tennis closer to Indian players and audiences, as stated in a WTT press release.

The announcement comes at a time when Indian sports are experiencing substantial institutional support and grassroots enthusiasm, with table tennis gaining popularity and a new wave of Indian talent emerging on the world stage.

Since its inception, WTT has quickly transformed into a vibrant global sports entity, organizing top-tier events across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. With a presence in over 180 broadcast regions, WTT has turned table tennis into a year-round premium sporting event, supported by elite venues, engaging production, and a digital-first approach.

Leading this transformation is Steve Dainton, the CEO of WTT and a prominent figure in the sport. Since taking the helm of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) in 2017, Dainton has been instrumental in the sport's global expansion, notably as the visionary behind WTT's creation in 2019 and its launch in 2021. His leadership is crucial as WTT seeks to enter new markets, with India now firmly on the agenda.

As the WTT Series continues to grow with major events like the Grand Smashes in Asia and Champions events in Europe, the establishment of WTT India comes at a strategic time, placing India at the forefront of WTT's global expansion plans.

“India is one of the most promising frontiers for table tennis worldwide,” Dainton remarked. “The enthusiasm is palpable. The infrastructure is developing. The player base is expanding. With WTT India, we are committed to creating a sustainable ecosystem that benefits both India and the sport. Our goal is to establish a presence, create new opportunities, and integrate India into our global calendar and community.”

WTT's journey in India began with the WTT Star Contender Goa in 2023, followed by a successful return in 2024. In 2025, the event advanced significantly with the WTT Star Contender Chennai, further enhancing its status in a city rich in table tennis history.

Joining the Board is Vita Dani, a prominent sports entrepreneur in India and Chairperson of Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT). A strong advocate for athlete development and grassroots investment, Dani also serves on the governing board of the ITTF Foundation and co-founded the Dani Sports Foundation, which promotes physical literacy and sports education across India.

“This initiative is both a passion project and a strategic endeavor,” Dani stated. “WTT India provides us with the platform to infuse international energy into a local movement. We possess the talent, ambition, and now the framework to aspire for greater achievements. More Indian athletes will have the opportunity to compete in world-class events on home turf, experiencing the WTT stage firsthand and using it as a launchpad to the global circuit. Such exposure can be transformative.”

Supporting this new chapter is Sharath Kamal Achanta, India's most celebrated table tennis player, who has been appointed as the official ambassador for WTT India. A multiple Commonwealth Games champion and Olympic veteran, Achanta brings extensive experience from the international arena and a lasting influence in Indian sports.

“This moment signifies a new beginning,” Achanta expressed. “The sport has progressed significantly in India, and with WTT's official presence, we have the opportunity to elevate it to unprecedented heights. I am honored to represent this new phase—not just as a player, but as someone who genuinely believes in the potential of Indian table tennis.”

As WTT accelerates its global outreach, India stands as a crucial element in shaping the future of modern table tennis. The launch of WTT India signifies a pivotal moment in this journey, driven by purpose, fueled by passion, and reinforced through strategic collaborations.