World Table Tennis (WTT) has expanded its broadcast footprint across China and Macao through a partnership with MIGU – the streaming subsidiary of China Mobile.
In collaboration with the telecommunications company, the four-year deal signifies a ‘breakthrough’ for WTT in terms of media rights in the history of table tennis, as it highlights the sport’s growth and market value in recent years.
International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Group CEO and WTT Director, Steve Dainton, commented: “This is a significant deal for WTT as it’s the largest deal to date in China for table tennis with such a big player in the sports broadcasting world.”
The enterprise will become the exclusive media partner of WTT in China, with full media rights in Mainland China and Macao Special Administrative Region, as well as exclusive production rights using new technologies such as 4K, 8K, VR and AI.
At the same time, both parties will jointly formulate and release a ‘5G smart venue guide for WTT events’ to further promote the digitalisation of table tennis events through 5G + table tennis.
Additionally, the partners will work together in a bid to increase the volume of fans via MIGU’s platform.
“Through this partnership with China Mobile MIGU, WTT will be established as one of the powerhouse sports properties in China through their growing platform and, at the same time, enables us to continue with our long-term partners. We look forward to working with MIGU to welcome the new era of table tennis to our Chinese fans,” Dainton added.
The relationship looks to build on the success of the Chinese team at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020, where WTT claims that the sport broke all viewing and social records inside China.
General Manager of China Mobile MIGU, Liu Xin, added: “China Mobile seeks to actively build a ubiquitous and integrated computing network, develop digital intelligence innovation, and promote 5G for the public, industries and scale development.
“As a digital content expert under China Mobile, MIGU is committed to creating a better life for all through culture + technology. Through this partnership with WTT, we perfectly integrate exciting table tennis content with China Mobile’s extensive user base, cutting edge technology and rich experience in event operation.
“Together, we will work towards the digital transformation of the table tennis industry, convey China’s sporting spirit and prowess, and realise the dream of being a sports powerhouse.”
Last week, the organisation announced an extension of its partnership with Chinese apparel brand Li-Ning until 2022.
This deal saw the company look to expand its influence in international table tennis, while at the same time working to promote commercial table tennis events in China.
