QTTA to host four WTT tournaments in January
Doha: The Qatar Table Tennis Association (QTTA) on Sunday announced plans to host a remarkable combined WTT World Championship events, featuring four tournaments under one banner in January 2024.
Starting with the electrifying WTT Pro Tour Finals where the world’s best clash for ultimate glory, the event then progresses to the WTT Star Contender and WTT Contender tournaments, offering platforms for rising stars and seasoned players to shine. Finally, the future champions will take center stage in the Youth Contender Championship.
The announcement of the combined WTT World Championships - to be hosted by the QTTA - was made at the Al Bidda Tower. High-ranking figures graced the occasion, including Khalil bin Ahmed Al Mohannadi, Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee and a prominent leader in the table tennis world. Mohammed Abdullah Saleh, Vice-Chairman of the Organizing Committee, and Ali Sultan Al Muftah, Tournament Director, also spoke on the occasion.
Doha serves as the bridge between seasons, concluding the 2023 World Table Tennis campaign with the thrilling Professional Tour Finals on January 3-5. The baton then passes seamlessly to the 2024 season, commencing in the same city with the WTT Star Contender - scheduled from January 8-13. This seamless transition promises an uninterrupted flow of table tennis excellence, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Following the WTT Star Contender, the action will continue with the third tournament, the WTT Contender - from January 14th to 20th. This event offers even more opportunities for talented players to showcase their skills and vie for championship glory.
The grand finale of the entire championship series arrives with the WTT Youth Contender - from January 22nd to 25th. This prestigious competition shines a spotlight on the bright stars of tomorrow, showcasing the future of table tennis and giving fans a glimpse of the next generation of champions.
“The month of January will not only welcome an elite group of world champions and top players, but also a sizable contingent of guests and delegations from around the globe. This signifies a significant moment for Qatari table tennis, showcasing its ability to organize world-class competitions,” said Al Mohannadi on Sunday.
“The competitions will kick off at the Lusail Multi-Purpose Sports Hall with the WTT Finals Men marking the launch of the World Professional Tour Finals for Men under its new format. This is the third edition of the event, with previous editions held in Singapore, Germany, and most recently, Japan for the women’s championship,” Al Mohannadi added.
“The men’s professional tour finals, kicking off January 3rd and concluding on January 5th, 2024, will showcase the world’s top 16 players in a fierce battle for ultimate glory. These include Chinese stars like Ma Long and Fan Zhendong, Japanese prodigy Tomokazu Harimoto, Brazilian sensation Hugo Calderano, and German national team standouts, will compete solely based on their global rankings, ensuring the participation of only the very best,” he added.
“Adding to the excitement, the four tournaments boast a combined prize money of approximately $750,000, with winners in each taking home their share of this substantial reward,” Al Mohanndi said. “A total of 700 players will grace the courts during the events. This includes the elite group of 16 top seeds competing in the professional singles finals and 8 of the world’s best doubles players. This impressive turnout promises a spectacle of skill and athleticism across all four tournaments,” he added.
“The WTT World Championships finals offer a unique experience for both VIPs and dedicated fans. Special seating arrangements have been designed, bringing spectators closer to the action than ever before. This proximity, alongside exclusive VIP amenities, promises an unprecedented level of immersion and excitement for attendees,” Al Mohanndi announced.
“For one whole month, Qatar will become the center stage for the global table tennis community,” said Al Mohannadi.
He further emphasized the significant role these tournaments play for top players. “Not only does participation offer an exciting competition platform, but the substantial points awarded contribute to their rankings in the lead-up to the Paris Olympics and World Championships,” he added.
Al Mohannadi also highlighted the significance of these championships as a valuable rehearsal for Qatar’s upcoming hosting of the 2025 World Cup. He emphasized the meticulous planning and preparation undertaken by the organizing committee, expressing eagerness for the tournament guests to arrive.
“Beyond the competitive action, the event promises a vibrant side programme. Various meetings and conferences will be held alongside the tournaments, including the General Assemblies of both the Arab and West Asian Table Tennis Federations. This adds an extra layer of engagement and strengthens the sense of community within the sport,” he added.
Addressing concerns about scheduling conflicts, Al Mohannadi assured the audience that the Pro Tour Finals will conclude before the start of the AFC Asian Cup to be held in Qatar from Jan 12-Feb 10, 2024.
When asked about ticketing matters, Al Mohannadi said: “Marking a first in table tennis tournaments, ticket sales for the event are being conducted entirely online, accessible to both Qatari and international fans. This innovative approach serves as a valuable rehearsal for the World Cup finals, allowing the organizers to gauge public interest and demand. Ticket sales have already been brisk, suggesting a strong appetite for witnessing these exciting competitions.”
Al Mohannadi added: “With all tournament supplies and equipment now secured, the Lusail Sports Hall is on track to host the competitions. Starting December 25th, the venue will be available for setup, and by the 28th, it will be fully prepared for player training sessions. Accommodation, and transportation arrangements are also finalized, ensuring a seamless launch for the opening competition.”
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