New Delhi: Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) is back for its fifth season, promising 17 days of electrifying matches from August 22nd to September 7th in Chennai. This year’s edition marks a significant collaboration between UTT and Viacom18, ensuring fans across India can enjoy the games for free.
This isn’t the first time UTT and Viacom18 have joined forces. Their successful partnership from last season continues, bringing world-class table tennis to your screens. The matches will be streamed live on JioCinema and broadcasted on the Sports18 Network, with Hindi and English commentary to cater to a wider audience.
Launched in 2017, UTT has become a major player in the global sports scene. Co-founded by Niraj Bajaj and Vita Dani under the Table Tennis Federation of India, the league has played a key role in propelling Indian table tennis to new heights. This is evident in the historic qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics by the Indian team.
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“Our partnership with Viacom18 underscores our shared commitment to taking table tennis to every corner of India,” said UTT co-promoters Niraj Bajaj and Vita Dani. “With Viacom18’s extensive reach and dedication to sports broadcasting, UTT 2024 promises to be a thrilling event for fans nationwide.”
Building on last season’s success, which saw over 33 million viewers tune in, UTT 2024 brings an exciting expansion. Eight teams will battle it out, including newcomers Ahmedabad SG Pipers and Jaipur Patriots. Fans can also cheer for established teams like PBG Bengaluru Smashers, Dabang Delhi TTC, U Mumba TT, Goa Challengers, Puneri Paltan Table Tennis, and Chennai Lions.
This collaboration further strengthens Viacom18’s already impressive sports portfolio. The network boasts major events like the upcoming Paris Olympics, Diamond League, BWF tournaments, cricket’s biggest leagues (BCCI, IPL, WPL, SA20), Major League Cricket, and the NBA.
“UTT has consistently captivated audiences with its high-octane matches and exceptional performances by Indian and international stars,” said Hursh Shrivastava, Head of Strategy, Acquisitions, & Partnerships at Viacom18 Sports. “We’re particularly excited to showcase India’s best paddlers like Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra, and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, all returning from their Olympic journey, as they compete in UTT 2024.”
Speaking of competitors, UTT 2024 boasts a star-studded lineup. Get ready to witness 48 top paddlers, including Indian aces Achanta Sharath Kamal, Manika Batra, and Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, alongside international stars like Bernadette Szocs and Quadri Aruna.