WTT Star Contender Bangkok 2024: Everything You Need to Know*
The WTT Star Contender Bangkok 2024 is underway, and the excitement is building. Don’t miss any action from the Land of Smiles – here’s all you need to know.
When and Where:
Head to Huamark Indoor Stadium to catch all the action. The qualifying rounds are from July 2-3, with the main draw taking place from July 4-7.
What’s at Stake:
A total prize pool of USD 250,000 is up for grabs, along with 600 ITTF World Ranking Points for the champions.
Follow Event Action:
Defending the Crown:
In the 2023 edition, Lin Gaoyuan and Chen Xingtong both won the triple crown, marking the only time a double triple crown occurred in a WTT Series event. Now, the duo is back in Bangkok with wildcards, looking to defend their singles titles.
Last year’s Men’s Singles final was a thrilling match, with Lin narrowly defeating Jang Woojin 11-9 in the seventh set. For 2024, Lin is the top seed following Hugo Calderano’s withdrawal, while Jang is seeded 4th. Lin faces the pressure of defending his title as the lone representative from China.
“Last year’s final was a tough match that tested both my skills and mental strength. Clinching the victory was a mix of relief and intense satisfaction, especially after a period of not winning titles. Defending a title always brings a sense of pressure and excitement. It’s particularly significant this time as I face the challenge without my team there.” – Lin Gaoyuan
Tickets: Don’t Miss Out – See the Stars Live in Bangkok!
In the Women’s Singles, Chen Xingtong enters as the top seed, riding a wave of momentum. Just over a month ago, Chen won the singles title at WTT Contender Taiyuan 2024, marking her third WTT Series singles title and her first since claiming the trophy in Bangkok.
Double Trouble:
The talk of the WTT Series right now is about siblings Tomokazu and Miwa Harimoto. They made history at WTT Contender Tunis by becoming the first siblings to win singles titles at the same event. Now heading to Bangkok, they are favorites to win again. Last year, Tomokazu was the top seed in Men’s Singles but exited in the round of 32. Miwa made it to the quarterfinals before losing 3-2 to eventual finalist Joo Cheonhui. Will they make deeper runs in 2024?
Bangkok Breakthrough:
Local stars are ready to shine in Bangkok, particularly in the women’s events. Leading the charge for Thailand is 16th seed Orawan Paranang, who has had a fantastic season, including a semifinal appearance at WTT Contender Doha 2024. Close behind is Suthasini Sawettabut, who scored a big win at Singapore Smash by knocking out Bernadette Szocs. Jinnipa Sawettabut also recently achieved a career-best win against World No.45 Natalia Bajor at WTT Contender Zagreb. The home crowd could be the key to a breakthrough performance.
