The Maldives is set to host its inaugural international table tennis tournament, the 1st Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis Tournament (TMTT), from August 19–25, 2025, in Thoddoo, marking a significant milestone in the country’s sports tourism strategy.
Organized by Thoddoo Local Authority Company (TLAC) and Ihaa Table Tennis Academy (ITTA), the tournament has received high-profile endorsements from the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, the Table Tennis Association of Maldives, and Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC).
The event will bring together 120 international and local players aged 35 and above, transforming the tournament into a broader platform for cultural exchange and community engagement. By hosting this competition, the Maldives aims to demonstrate its capabilities in organizing world-class sporting events while simultaneously showcasing the destination’s natural beauty and hospitality.
Scheduled to take place at Thoddoo’s multi-purpose school hall, the tournament represents more than just a sporting competition. It embodies the Maldives’ strategic vision to diversify its tourism offerings and position itself as a dynamic destination for sports and lifestyle experiences.
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “This tournament highlights our commitment to expanding the Maldives’ tourism horizon. Sports tourism is a rapidly growing sector, and by supporting international tournaments such as TMTT, we reinforce the Maldives’ global image as more than a leisure destination — but also a vibrant hub for sports, wellness, and lifestyle experiences.”
The tournament is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for Thoddoo, creating opportunities for local community participation and international visibility. By attracting athletes and sports enthusiasts from around the world, the event will showcase the Maldives’ potential as a versatile and innovative tourism destination.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the 1st Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis Tournament represents a strategic initiative to broaden the Maldives’ international appeal. It demonstrates the country’s ability to host sophisticated sporting events while maintaining its reputation for exceptional hospitality and natural beauty.
As sports tourism continues to gain momentum globally, the Maldives is positioning itself at the forefront of this emerging travel trend. The TMTT tournament serves as a powerful testament to the nation’s commitment to innovation, cultural exchange, and sustainable tourism development.
