Chongqing—On March 11, the WTT Chongqing Champions 2025 opened at the Huaxi LIVE·Yudong Stadium in Chongqing. 

This six-day thrilling competition features 64 of the world's top table tennis players (32 men and 32 women). The event, one of the most prestigious in the table tennis world, promises high-intensity matches and unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

This year's tournament boasts an impressive prize pool of 800,000 USD, and the champion alone can take 60,000 USD from the pool with 1,000 world ranking points. The Chinese national team has sent a star-studded team of 10 top players (five men and five women) including Wang Chuqin, Lin Shidong, Liang Jingkun, Lin Gaoyuan, Sun Yingsha, Wang Manyu, Wang Yidi, Chen Xingtong, as well as Chen Yuanyu and Kuai Man, who secured their spots through the host wildcard. 

The opening ceremony features imposing light effects and performances (Photo/WTT Chongqing Champions)

Prominent figures, including Steve Dainton, CEO of WTT, Raul Calin, Secretary-General of ITTF, and Gao Yaxiang, Vice Chairman of the Chinese Table Tennis Association attended the opening ceremony. Representatives from the Chongqing Municipal Government and the Banan District also graced the occasion, underscoring the event's significance. In his speech, Gao Yaxiang highlighted the tournament's impact on promoting table tennis in Chongqing and the broader Southwest China region. He emphasized the event's role in fostering sports development, youth engagement, and cultural exchange, while also elevating Chongqing's global profile. "This year, we aim to provide athletes with a world-class competitive environment and deliver an unforgettable experience for spectators," he stated.

Chinese top player Sun Yingsha had her first victory on the first day (Photo/WTT Chongqing Champions)

The tournament features men's and women's singles events, with 62 matches scheduled over six days. On the first day, Chinese stars like Sun Yingsha, Lin Shidong, and Kuai Man showcased their skills, advancing to the round of 16 amidst roaring cheers from the crowd.

Beyond the matches, the event has become Chongqing's cultural and economic catalyst. The Banan District, known for its scenic beauty and rich heritage, has embraced the tournament as an opportunity to showcase its unique charm. He Yousheng, Secretary of the Banan District Party Committee, invited fans and visitors to explore the area's ancient towns, hot springs, and local cuisine, including the iconic Chongqing hotpot.

Fans are coming from all over the world to support their ping pong players (Photo/WTT Chongqing Champions)

The WTT Chongqing Champions 2025 is not just a sporting event but a celebration of global unity and cultural exchange. As the matches unfold, the world will witness the power of table tennis to connect people across borders and cultures.