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 more than just a competitive sporting event. It represents a strategic initiative to showcase the Maldives’ potential as a versatile destination that extends beyond traditional beach tourism.
Hosted at Thoddoo’s multi-purpose school hall, the tournament aims to create meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange, community engagement, and economic development for the local island. This approach underscores the growing recognition of sports tourism as a critical component of the Maldives’ broader tourism diversification strategy.
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, emphasized the broader significance of the event: “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 represents a pivotal moment for the Maldives, positioning the destination as an emerging sports tourism hub. By attracting international athletes and creating a platform for global interaction, the event demonstrates the country’s ability to host world-class sporting events while simultaneously promoting its natural beauty and hospitality.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the 1st Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis Tournament serves as a strategic initiative to broaden the Maldives’ international appeal. It directly contributes to local community development and enhances the nation’s global profile by showcasing its capacity to organize sophisticated international sporting events.
As the Maldives continues to innovate in its tourism offerings, this tournament stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to creating diverse, engaging experiences that go well beyond traditional beach and luxury resort tourism.
