Enhancements Announced for WTT China Smash 2025 in Beijing

A press conference took place in Beijing on June 6 to discuss the World Table Tennis (WTT) China Smash 2025, set to begin on September 25 in the Shijingshan district. This prestigious table tennis event will run until October 5 at Shougang Park, a venue previously used for the big air events during the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. It will feature top-ranked players in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions.

During the announcement, Mounir Bessah, the WTT Events Executive Director, highlighted that the China Smash serves as an exhibition of a world-class athletic event and an emblem of innovation within the sport. He emphasized that table tennis in China is built on a foundation of excellence and global engagement, linking tradition with modern progress, and fostering connections among athletes and fans alike.

He Xiao, secretary-general of the Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA), affirmed the organization’s commitment to innovation while honoring traditions, drawing on Beijing's unique history as the only city to have hosted both the Summer and Winter Olympics. He pointed out that collaboration with local communities, sports teams, schools, and parks is vital to extending the event’s impact throughout the city, highlighting table tennis' role as a connector of urban life.

Shougang Park will be transformed into a "Grand Smash-themed Park" during the event, offering an interactive experience zone, a cultural exhibition on Chinese table tennis, and numerous activities, including player meet-and-greets and public challenges. This initiative aims to enhance the spectator experience considerably.

Beijing continues its efforts to become a key destination for international events, as stated by Zhang Zhaohui from the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Sport. The city will host various significant competitions in the first half of 2025 and has secured the China Smash for five consecutive years from 2024 to 2028. The tournament is anticipated to attract top players globally, offering a prize pool of $2,050,000, along with 2000 ITTF World Ranking points for winners.

Bessah mentioned recent updates to enhance the event, including optimized rules, increased prize money, improved medical services, and a greater number of wild cards for emerging players. Changes have also been made to participation requirements for Grand Smashes in pursuit of a balanced approach to player well-being. The previous year’s China Smash showcased remarkable performances, including a memorable victory by rising star Lin Shidong against the legendary Ma Long.