Table Tennis

Manika Batra Achieves Historic Career-High ITTF Ranking as First Indian Woman in Top 25

In a momentous milestone for Indian table tennis, Manika Batra has climbed to a career-high world ranking of 24, according to the latest International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) rankings released on Tuesday. This remarkable achievement makes her the first Indian woman to enter the top 25 bracket in table tennis history.

The 28-year-old’s rise in the rankings is a result of her exceptional performance at the Saudi Smash 2024 tournament, where she made significant advances against some of the world’s top players. Batra’s journey at the tournament was marked by a series of upsets, starting with a major victory over World No.2 Wang Manyu of China in the round of 32. This win set the stage for her continued success, as she went on to defeat World No.14 Nina Mittelham of Germany in the pre-quarterfinals, marking her first-ever victory against the German veteran.

Although her impressive run was stopped in the quarterfinals by Japan’s World No.5 Hina Hayata, Batra’s performances were enough to catapult her into the elite top 25, a ranking bracket that no other Indian woman has previously reached. Her ascent to the 24th position matches the highest-ever ranking achieved by an Indian in singles, a record set by G Sathiyan in 2019.

In addition to her singles success, Batra has reclaimed her position as India’s No.1 woman paddler, surpassing Sreeja Akula, who now ranks 41st globally. 

The Indian contingent has seen varied results in other categories as well. Veteran Achanta Sharath Kamal continues to be a formidable presence, albeit dropping to World No.40 in the men’s singles. Meanwhile, young talents Manav Thakkar and Harmeet Desai have held their ground, maintaining their positions within the top 65 worldwide.

The doubles events also highlighted some positive movements for the Indian team. Sutirtha Mukherjee and Ayhika Mukherjee climbed one spot to 13th in the women’s doubles rankings. However, Thakkar and Manush Shah experienced a slight drop, slipping three places to 15th in men’s doubles. Additionally, the mixed doubles pair of Batra and Sathiyan fell one place to 24th.

Nevertheless, Batra’s historic rise in the ITTF rankings is a testament to her skill, determination, and the growing prowess of Indian table tennis on the global stage. As she continues to challenge the world’s best, her achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the nation.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Pro Kabaddi League 2024: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Dabang Delhi K.C. – Match Preview

The inaugural champions Jaipur Pink Panthers will take the mat against Dabang Delhi K.C. in… Read More

November 21, 2024

Robert Lewandowski recalls playing under ‘difficult’ Pep Guardiola; explains how ex-Barcelona coach changed

Barcelona’s striker Robert Lewandowski recalled how Pep Guardiola was a difficult coach to play under… Read More

November 21, 2024

Ayush Chikkara aspires to be a ‘regular’ in Mumbai City FC’s team, says doesn’t want to take any external pressure

Mumbai City FC forward Ayush Chikkara wants to find a regular place in Petr Kratky’s… Read More

November 21, 2024

Carlos Alcaraz lauds Rafael Nadal’s legacy after retirement

World No.2 Carlos Alcaraz hailed Rafael Nadal’s legacy after the veteran Spaniard retired from the… Read More

November 21, 2024

Jamshedpur FC’s defender Ashutosh Mehta credits ‘100% professional’ Khalid Jamil for having a big impact in his life

Jamshedpur FC full-back Ashutosh Mehta has given credit to head coach Khalid Jamil for playing… Read More

November 21, 2024

Lakers star LeBron James says he’s taking a break from social media

Los Angeles Lakers’s superstar LeBron James has revealed he is taking a break from social… Read More

November 21, 2024