Exciting times are ahead for the ITTF Challenge Series in 2019 and Seamaster will be an integral part of it all after agreeing to become title sponsor of the revamped competition.
The two-year deal means that Seamaster is expanding its involvement in professional table tennis, as the International Shipping Business Company already sponsors the ITTF World Tour. They now join DHS (official ball sponsor) as an ITTF Challenge Series partner until 2020.
The news arrives as the latest confirmation of how the ITTF Challenge Series – one of table tennis’ fastest-growing competitions – is set to make a significant impact in the sport starting next year.
HIGHER POINTS, PRIZE MONEY & COMPETITION!
Introduced in 2017 to give extra opportunities for upcoming players to challenge themselves and earn international recognition and experience, from 2019 the tournament will be split into two tiers: ITTF Challenge Plus and ITTF Challenge.
The brand new ITTF Challenge Plus series – consisting of six events per year – will offer players higher world ranking points, increased prize money and, most importantly, greater exposure to elite table tennis competition, enabling them to raise their game and reach the next level in their careers.
Furthermore, the more flexible requirements of the ITTF Challenge Series will allow a higher number of cities to get on board and stage an international table tennis event.
WHAT THEY SAID:
“As table tennis continues to enjoy significant growth around the world, Seamaster is very proud and excited to be strengthening its connection with the sport by sponsoring the ITTF Challenge Series.”
Frank Ji, Seamaster Chairman
“DHS will continue to provide table tennis balls and other equipment for the expanded ITTF Challenge Series. We believe that the high quality and consistent performance of the balls will contribute significantly to furthering innovation in table tennis technology.”
Lou Shihe, DHS General Manager
“2019 is set to be a ground-breaking year for table tennis with the ITTF Challenge Series offering unprecedented opportunities to players, host organisers and naturally sponsors too, so we are delighted that Seamaster is joining us on this exciting new venture.”
Matthew Pound, ITTF Marketing Director