World Table Tennis (WTT) is excited to announce that the first ever WTT Series event is headed to Argentina, with the addition of WTT Contender Mendoza to the calendar. Set to be staged from 27 May to 2 June at the Aconcagua Arena in Mendoza, the new event comes off the back of Argentina successfully hosting WTT Youth Contender Rosario in 2023.
Mendoza, known globally for its vibrant culture, exquisite cuisine, and as the heart of Argentina’s wine region, offers the perfect setting for the WTT Contender Series. The Aconcagua Arena, renowned for its modern facilities and capacity to host large-scale international events, is poised to welcome the world’s table tennis community.
WTT Contender Mendoza is shaping up to be a spectacular showcase of talent, with the potential to spotlight both local favourites and national heroes in the sport. With participant entries set for five weeks before the event, there’s eager anticipation for the involvement of notable players such as Mendoza’s Santiago Lorenzo and Gaston Alto, alongside Argentine talents Horacio Cifuentes and Ana Codina. The event will not only promises to showcase Argentina’s burgeoning presence in the international table tennis arena, but also underscores the country’s escalating presence on the global stage, further advancing the sport across the region.
Federico Chiapetta, Mendoza Deputy Secretary of Sports, shared, “It is a great honour for Mendoza to host the WTT Contender. During recent years, our province has welcomed and hosted numerous high-level sporting events, evidencing that we are a prestigious sporting centre. The arrival of this international table tennis circuit demonstrates Mendoza’s Government commitment to this sport, providing both local residents and visitors with the opportunity to witness the world’s best players in the discipline.”
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“Mendoza boasts significant accommodation services, one of the country’s most important gastronomic offerings, large shopping centres, and a wide-ranging touristic proposal for those who visit us. We are proud to host this incredible event,” Mr. Chiapetta added.
Fernando Joffre, President of Argentina Federation of Table Tennis (FATM), remarked, “Bringing the WTT Contender to Mendoza is a proud moment for Argentine table tennis. It’s an opportunity to showcase our athletes on an international stage and inspire a new generation in our country.”
This announcement continues the rapid growth of WTT events in the Americas. With past WTT Contenders in Lima and Rio De Janeiro attracting global stars such as Dimitrij Ovtcharov, Hugo Calderano, Shin Yubin and Hina Hayata, Mendoza will add to the region another important stop on the WTT Series for the world’s best table tennis athletes.
Echoing their sentiments, Gonzalos Barak, WTT Manager Partnerships Sales – Americas added: “WTT Contender Mendoza is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the sport’s growing community in Argentina and an invitation to the world to experience the beauty and hospitality of Mendoza.”
The 2024 WTT Contender Series has seen as exciting year so far, offering fans globally a showcase of top-tier table tennis action. With an enhanced calendar featuring at least 13 events, including five WTT Star Contender and eight WTT Contender events, athletes are set to compete for not only increased prize money but also crucial world ranking points. These competitions serve as key stepping stones towards qualification for WTT’s premier events: the Grand Smashes, Champions, and Finals, ensuring a year filled with high-stakes and exhilarating table tennis.
