Disappointing Start for Indian Duo at ITTF World Cup 2026
Synopsis
Indian table tennis stars Manika Batra and Manav Thakkar had a rocky start to the ITTF World Cup 2026, facing tough defeats in their opening matches. As the tournament progresses, they look to bounce back in upcoming challenges against formidable opponents.
Key Takeaways
Manika Batra and Manav Thakkar lost their opening matches.
The tournament format has changed to best-of-five for group matches.
Indian players have historically not medaled at the ITTF World Cup.
The event celebrates 100 years of the ITTF.
A prize pool of USD 1 million is at stake.
Monaco, March 30 (NationPress) The Indian table tennis contingent had a disheartening beginning at the ITTF World Cup 2026, as both Manika Batra and Manav Thakkar suffered defeats in their opening group matches on Monday. Manika Batra, currently ranked 47th in the world, was defeated 3-0 (18-16, 11-4, 11-6) by Japan's Miwa Harimoto in Group 4 of the women's singles. Meanwhile, Asian Games medallist Manav Thakkar lost 3-0 (11-7, 11-6, 11-8) to South Korea’s Park Gang-hyeon.
In her next match, Manika Batra will go up against Olympian Lily Zhang, who is ranked 42nd in the USA, while Manav faces a formidable challenge in his upcoming game against Truls Moregardh, the world No. 2 and Olympic silver medallist from Sweden.
This year's tournament features a new format where Stage 1 group matches are played in a best-of-five format, differing from previous competitions. A total of 48 players are split into 16 groups of three, with the winners of each group advancing to the Stage 2 knockout rounds, where matches will be played in a best-of-seven format, all vying for the prestigious Evans and Hammarlund Cups.
Additionally, world No. 44 Sreeja Akula will kick off her campaign against Olympic gold medallist and world No. 2 Wang Manyu from China.
Historically, no Indian player has ever claimed a medal at the ITTF World Cup. Both Manika Batra and Sreeja Akula participated in the 2025 tournament but could not progress beyond the group stage.
Running from March 30 to April 5, this prestigious tournament sees the world’s top table tennis athletes competing for a USD 1 million prize pool. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 100th anniversary of the ITTF, which was founded in 1926.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the challenges faced by our athletes on the global stage. The initial losses for Manika and Manav highlight the fierce competition at the ITTF World Cup, but their potential for recovery remains. Encouragement and support are vital as they continue to strive for success.
NationPress
14 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the results of Manika Batra and Manav Thakkar in their opening matches?
Manika Batra lost 3-0 to Miwa Harimoto, while Manav Thakkar was defeated 3-0 by Park Gang-hyeon.
When does the ITTF World Cup 2026 take place?
The ITTF World Cup 2026 runs from March 30 to April 5.
What is the prize pool for the ITTF World Cup 2026?
The prize pool for the tournament is USD 1 million.
What format is used for the group matches at the ITTF World Cup?
The group matches are played in a best-of-five format, which is a change from previous tournaments.
Has any Indian player ever won a medal at the ITTF World Cup?
No Indian table tennis player has ever won a medal at the ITTF World Cup.
