The World Table Tennis (WTT) Star Contender will make its Chennai debut at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium from March 25 to 30, 2025. After two successful editions in Goa in 2023 and 2024, the prestigious event moves to Tamil Nadu’s capital, bringing top paddlers from across the globe to the city.
The tournament will begin with qualifying rounds on March 25 and 26, followed by the main draw from March 27 to 30.
In previous editions, Liang Jingkun and Wang Yidi claimed the men’s and women’s singles titles in 2023, while Felix Lebrun and Cheng-I-Ching emerged victorious in 2024.
- Meghanatha Reddy, Member Secretary of the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, credited Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal for his role in bringing the event to Chennai.
“We have been in talks with the license holder (Stupa Sports Analytics) for a while. Sharath Kamal played a critical role in the event coming to Chennai. This is a big step for the sport, and we are also discussing talent development initiatives with Stupa,” Reddy said.
Tamil Nadu’s Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin expressed pride in hosting the event, emphasizing the state’s commitment to becoming India’s premier sports hub.
“Hosting the WTT Star Contender in Chennai is a proud moment for Tamil Nadu. This event showcases our world-class infrastructure and inspires youth to embrace sports as a way of life,” Stalin said.
For Sharath Kamal, the tournament holds personal significance. “As someone who grew up in this city, it is incredibly special to see Chennai take centre stage in the global table tennis arena,” he said.
Sharath also highlighted the iconic status of the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium and its legacy in sports. “I’m thrilled that fans here will witness world-class competition once again. I’m confident this event will inspire the next generation of Indian players,” he added.
The WTT Star Contender promises not just high-octane matches but also opportunities for talent development, as Tamil Nadu continues to establish itself as a powerhouse in the Indian sporting landscape.
