In the electric atmosphere of the WTT Champions Frankfurt 2023, there was a pause of celebration rather than competition, as the ITTF Group honored a remarkable milestone. Liebherr, the esteemed German machinery giant, was spotlighted for their unwavering support as they celebrated their 20th anniversary as a stalwart partner of international table tennis.
Inaugural Partnership and Enduring Legacy
Rewind to 2003, the global table tennis community witnessed the inception of a partnership that would thrive for years to come. It was at the 2003 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships in Paris that Liebherr first joined forces with the ITTF, embarking on what would be a dynamic journey.
Two Decades of Support
Throughout the span of twenty years, Liebherr has been synonymous with the advancement of table tennis. The company’s patronage spans a host of prestigious events:
- World Championships
- World Cups
- World Tour Opens in Germany and Austria
And this year, Liebherr’s commitment extended to their inaugural sponsorship of a WTT event, further solidifying their role in shaping the landscape of the sport.
A Gesture of Appreciation
The ITTF leadership, including President Petra Sörling and Group CEO Steve Dainton, marked this special anniversary with a gesture of profound gratitude. In a ceremonial act, they presented Liebherr with a commemorative award, symbolizing the unity and shared progress between the entities.
Petra Sörling, sharing her thoughts, said:
We are beyond proud to have Liebherr as an enduring partner. Their contribution is immeasurable, and as we gather here in Germany for another hallmark event, we are reminded of the strength of our collaboration.
Steve Dainton also expressed his sentiments:
The longevity and depth of our partnership with Liebherr are unique and special. It’s a testament to the mutual principles and aspirations we share. Our heartfelt thanks go out to the entire Liebherr team, and we are excited about what the future holds for us together in the realm of table tennis.
Words from Liebherr
Speaking from the heart of the event, Kristian Küppers, Liebherr’s Head of Communication and Brand Management, voiced his pride in the company’s longstanding relationship with the ITTF.
Liebherr: A Legacy of Innovation
Beyond their involvement in sports, Liebherr stands tall as a beacon of innovation and quality. Founded in 1949, this family-owned enterprise has grown to become a leading name in the construction equipment industry and other technological domains. The dedication of Liebherr’s employees has always been driven by a commitment to excellence and the pursuit of providing cutting-edge solutions.
Looking Forward
As the WTT Champions Frankfurt 2023 unfolds, the spotlight may be on the players and their electrifying rallies, but there’s an underlying current of excitement about the continued collaboration between Liebherr and the ITTF. It’s more than just a sponsorship, it’s a shared passion for excellence and advancement in the world of table tennis.
In the spirit of celebration, both entities anticipate many more years of joint ventures and successes. As the batons of innovation and collaboration are passed on, the next chapter of this two-decade-long story is already being written, with the ITTF and Liebherr ready to serve the next ace in the game of technological progress and sportsmanship.
