Following the withdrawal of Fan Zhendong and Chen Meng from ITTF-sanctioned events, the ITTF addressed several issues, including penalties. One of these issues is why table tennis players are penalized for withdrawing from WTT events. Fan Zhendong made it clear that one of the reasons for his decision to stop playing in ITTF events is the fines imposed for non-participation.
From this post of WTT, the reason for penalties and I quote
"The penalties for non-participation are designed to support the structure of the WTT calendar, ensuring that fans, organisers, event partners and broadcast partners can rely on the participation of the world’s top players"
https://worldtabletennis.com/description?artId=4517
What do you think about this? Are fines justified for players who choose not to participate in WTT events?
That's really forcing players to participate. I think, from the ITTF's perspective, they are investing a lot of money in prize pools, charging fans substantial amounts for WTT live events, and drawing significant revenue from sponsors. It's only fair that they require players to attend marquee events or face financial consequences.
WTT should listen to the players, as they are the main attraction. In the long term, it will only hurt them financially if fans lose interest in these events due to top players like Fan Zhendong and Chen Meng no longer participating. A decline in fan engagement will also discourage sponsors, leading to a downward spiral.
Monetary penalty for not participating an ITTF-sanctioned table tennis tournament is just NOT RIGHT!
I believe Quadri Aruna has an ongoing legal battle with ITTF because of these fines.
WTT released new ITTF rankings with Fan Zhendong, Chen Meng, and Ma Long already removed. 😱 😱 😱Â
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Can it even be called World Rankings without Fan Zhendong, Cheng Meng, and Ma Long?
Here's what Liu Guoliang's reaction on Ma Long, Fan Zhendong, and Cheng Meng's withdrawal in WTT rankings and tournaments. He expressed his support for the three players and said there is something wrong with WTT Mandatory Events
WTT, we are fine with players occasionally not attending. Don't charge them hefty fines.