Bangkok is gearing up to host the World Table Tennis Star Contender 2023 series tournament in late April. More than 300 professional table tennis players from 30 countries are expected to participate in the event, which is being held in Bangkok for the first time. The tournament will take place at the Hua Mark Indoor Stadium in Bang Kapi district from April 23 to 29.
There will be men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles and mixed doubles trophies in contention.
At a press conference on Friday, Bangkok deputy governor Sanon Wangsrangboon expressed his excitement about the event.
“Hosting this event will not only give the city experience in organising sports events but will also promote tourism, as well as food and transport businesses.”
“We believe our infrastructure can accommodate athletes and sports enthusiasts from across the world. Also, local table tennis fans will get a chance to enjoy a memorable event in the city.”
The WTT Star Contender is the fourth largest tournament in the WTT Series and is made up of six events held throughout the year. It is designed to find 48 men and 48 women to compete in the WTT Contender, WTT Champion and WTT Cup Finals.
The tournament offers a total of US$250,000 (8.25 million baht) in prizes, as well as 600 world ranking points to the winner.
The Bangkok deputy governor believes that hosting an international event of this magnitude will inspire young Thai athletes to hone their skills and compete at an international level.
“We believe this international event will further improve table tennis in Thailand.”
The Table Tennis Association of Thailand is also collaborating in the event. With the infrastructure and support available, it is expected that the tournament will be a huge success, attracting visitors and players from all over the world.
And, really, could you imagine a better place in the world to host such a huge and prestigious ping pong show?
