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 dynamic sports tourism destination that combines world-class athletic competitions with the country’s renowned natural beauty and hospitality.
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 crucial strategy for diversifying the Maldives’ tourism offerings.
Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, emphasized the broader 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 represents a strategic approach to positioning the Maldives as a premier sports tourism destination. By attracting international athletes and generating global media attention, the event is expected to create tangible benefits for local communities while simultaneously enhancing the nation’s international profile.
This innovative initiative reflects the Maldives’ forward-thinking approach to tourism development, demonstrating the country’s ability to host world-class sporting events that go beyond traditional leisure experiences. The 1st Thoddoo Masters Table Tennis Tournament is poised to become a landmark event in the Maldives’ evolving tourism landscape.
