Last updated on November 19, 2024
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has announced a major update to its World Para Circuit, aiming to make Para table tennis more exciting and accessible. With a new structure, event calendar, and ranking system, this change is designed to boost the sport globally.
Highlights include:
- A new three-tier event system.
- Over 20 events planned across the world.
- A revamped ranking system to encourage more participation.
- A focus on building on the success of the Paris 2024 Paralympics.
A Three-Tier Event System: Future, Challenger, and Elite
The new structure includes three levels of events:
- Future Events: These are for new players starting in international competitions. They provide a chance to practice, gain skills, and improve their rankings.
- Challenger Events: These are more competitive, offering thrilling matches with up to eight events held each year.
- Elite Events: These bring together the best players in the world to compete at the highest level, crowning champions.
The ITTF will also test youth-focused events that may become a regular part of the circuit in the future.
Official Ball Partner: Butterfly
Tamasu Co., Ltd., the company behind Butterfly table tennis products, will supply the official ball for the Elite Events. Takako Osawa, President of Tamasu Co., Ltd., shared their excitement:
“Butterfly has long supported Para table tennis, and we are honored to contribute to this exciting new circuit by providing the official ball of Elite Events that will enhance the performance of the sport’s top players.”
Expanding Global Reach
In 2025, over 20 events will be held worldwide, making this the most diverse Para table tennis circuit ever. Events will take place in cities and emerging markets, helping fans connect with athletes globally.
Steve Dainton, ITTF Group CEO, emphasized the importance of this expansion:
“Expanding our circuit is essential to providing more opportunities for players to compete and for fans to engage. This step is key to fulfilling our ambition of strengthening Para table tennis on a worldwide scale.”
The Continental Championships are planned for Autumn 2025 in Brazil, China, Egypt, New Zealand, and Sweden.
The complete ITTF World Para Circuit 2025 calendar can be found here.
Updated Ranking System
The ITTF will launch a new ranking system where points are based on how players perform in competitions. Rankings will reflect the best results from the past 52 weeks and will be updated weekly. This makes it easier for fans and players to follow progress in real-time.
To help players adjust, there will be a one-year transition period where they can still defend their current ranking points.
The Para table tennis community is looking forward to the ITTF World Para Circuit 2025, which promises exciting matches and new champions across its three event levels.
