Panaji: Indian table tennis player Nithyashree Mani believes competing against some of the world’s best players in Butterfly Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) Season 7 Powered by ChatGPT has provided Indian paddlers with invaluable exposure and accelerated their development on the international stage.
Representing U Mumba TT, Mani has faced several world-class opponents during the tournament, including reigning UTT MVP and three-time Olympian Bernadette Szocs. While the competition has been intense, she says the experience has significantly enhanced her confidence and understanding of the game.
Speaking after her impressive 2-1 victory over a foreign opponent, Mani expressed her delight at contributing valuable points for her team.
“I am really happy that I got an opportunity to play today, and to compete against a foreign player has made me even happier because I get to showcase my game against world-class athletes. I am delighted that I won 2-1. In the third game, she played extremely well, but I am glad I could secure two points for the team,” she said.
The young Indian paddler highlighted that the quality of competition in UTT continues to improve every season, with numerous top-50 international players participating in the league.
“In this season’s UTT, there are many exceptional players in the top 50, and getting to play against them is a great experience for all the Indian players. The environment and the team support are so encouraging, so it is really wonderful that UTT is progressing so well. I am thrilled that we have qualified,” she added.
Mani also credited teammate Lilian Bardet for easing the pressure during their crucial tie that secured U Mumba TT’s place in the playoffs.
“If he had not taken those two games, the pressure would have been on me. I am glad he did that because it allowed me to play much more freely.”
Looking ahead to the knockout stage, U Mumba TT is expected to face HVR Kolkata Thunder Blades in the semifinals. Mani remains optimistic about her team’s chances.
“Hopefully, we will go on to win.”
Organised under the aegis of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) and promoted by Niraj Bajaj and Vita Dani, Butterfly UTT Season 7 continues to showcase world-class table tennis while providing Indian players with an opportunity to compete against international stars, strengthening the country’s table tennis ecosystem.
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