Published on March 25, 2026
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, young table tennis players Manav Thakkar and Yashaswini Ghorpade clinched their first national titles at the 83rd Senior National Table Tennis Championships held in Kolkata. The championship, which attracted some of the best players from across the country, provided a platform for the rising stars to demonstrate their talent and resilience.
Manav Thakkar, a 21-year-old prodigy from Gujarat, secured the men’s singles title after a thrilling final match against seasoned player Sathiyan Gnanasekaran. Thakkar showcased his exceptional agility and strategic gameplay, ultimately winning in straight sets with a score of 4-0. This victory is particularly significant for Thakkar, as it marks his emergence onto the national stage, following a series of successful performances in junior competitions.
In the women’s singles category, Yashaswini Ghorpade, a promising talent from Karnataka, achieved her maiden national title after a closely contested final against Manika Batra. Ghorpade displayed an impressive mix of power and precision, overcoming Batra in a nail-biting five-game match that concluded with a score of 4-3. The victory underscores Ghorpade’s potential as she continues to rise through the ranks of Indian table tennis.
Both players expressed their elation following their respective victories. Thakkar remarked on the significance of winning his first national title, stating, “This is a dream come true for me. Competing against such accomplished players has pushed me to improve and excel. I hope to build on this success and represent India at international tournaments.”
Ghorpade echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the perseverance and hard work that led to her triumph. “Winning this title gives me great motivation to continue training hard. It’s a testament to my efforts and the support I’ve received from my coaches and family. I aim to take this momentum into my future competitions,” she shared.
The 83rd Senior National Table Tennis Championships not only highlighted the budding talent in India but also showcased the depth of the sport in the country. As more young athletes like Thakkar and Ghorpade rise to prominence, Indian table tennis appears well-positioned to make a significant mark on the global stage in the coming years.
These victories are seen as a renewal of hope for the sport in India, promoting greater interest and encouraging young players to pick up paddles. With both players eyeing international competitions, the future of Indian table tennis looks promising as they continue to inspire a new generation of athletes.