When Harmeet Desai picked up a table tennis paddle as a child in Surat, Gujarat, he never imagined he would one day represent India at the Olympics. Yet today, the 31-year-old is living that very dream. From becoming the first player from Gujarat to win a national title, to scripting history on the international stage, Harmeet’s journey is one of quiet determination and relentless growth.
We sat down with the Arjuna Awardee just before a crucial clash in the Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) league. He opened up about the turning points of his career, the evolution of Indian table tennis, his Olympic debut, and his hopes for India’s sporting future.
From Surat to the World Stage
“When I started playing table tennis, I never even imagined I could come this far,” Harmeet reflects, his voice calm but heartfelt. “To become a national champion, to represent India at the Olympics—it still feels like a dream.”
That dream was not built overnight. Harmeet credits much of his success to the consistent hard work he put in and the support of his family. But there was also a defining moment that shifted his trajectory.
“In 2009–10, I got the opportunity to be in the Commonwealth Games Probable list,” he says. “That was a big moment. I was still training in Surat, just a teenager. But being at the national camp, training under foreign coaches alongside senior players, changed everything. I improved drastically. Within a year, I rose from being ranked around 25 nationally to breaking into the top 4.”
That exposure gave Harmeet a sense of belonging at the highest level. “Being around those players, seeing how they train and prepare—it gave me belief. I thought, ‘If they can do it, why can’t I?’”
The Highs That Defined Him
Among Harmeet’s numerous accolades, two stand out emotionally: the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the 2018 Asian Games.
“In 2014, I had come very close to a medal. I lost on match point to Liam Pitchford. So in 2018, there was a lot of pressure. But I managed to win multiple medals. That was really special,” he recounts.
The Asian Games medal was just as significant. “We beat Japan in the team event—a country known for its table tennis legacy. That win meant a lot for Indian table tennis and for me personally.”
Olympic Debut in Paris: A Dream Realized
Harmeet made his Olympic debut in Paris, competing in both singles and team events. “It was surreal. My first World Championships were also in Paris, so going back there as an Olympian was like life coming full circle.”
While he lost in the second round to eventual bronze medalist Félix Lebrun, Harmeet says the experience was full of valuable lessons. “I played well. I didn’t convert the sets, but I understood where I needed to improve—especially in service, receiving, and the short game.”
He adds with a smile, “And I got to meet Nadal. Took a selfie with him! That was a dream moment too.”
UTT: Changing the Game
Harmeet is a two-time UTT champion with the Goa Challengers, and he’s quick to praise the impact the league has had.
“It’s like the T20 of table tennis,” he laughs. “The short format, unpredictability, the chance to partner with foreign players—all of it makes UTT really exciting. And the format where men and women compete together? That’s the future. The Olympics are considering something similar.”
More importantly, UTT has helped Indian players believe they can beat the best in the world. “Before 2017, we didn’t have these kinds of opportunities. Now, we’re beating top players, and the results show that.”
Breaking Through at the Global Level
In 2023, Harmeet recorded some of his most impressive wins, defeating world-ranked Korean players like Jang Woo-jin (WR12) and Lim Jong-hoon (WR11). Asked what changed, he points to mental maturity.
“I know myself better now. I’ve learned how to handle pressure, how to adapt to different conditions. The mental part of the game—that’s where I’ve grown the most.”
Indian Table Tennis: Where We Stand
Indian table tennis is on the rise, and Harmeet acknowledges the improvements. “We’ve come a long way. A few years ago, there were only one or two players doing well internationally. Now, we have many players in the top 100.”
However, he’s candid about the need for further structural support. “We need a stronger pipeline like France or Japan. We have the talent. Now we need the systems in place—more academies, funding, exposure, and competitions.”
India as a Sporting Host: The Big Vision
India has expressed interest in hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and the Olympics in 2036. From an athlete’s perspective, Harmeet sees it as a game-changer.
“Look at 2010. After hosting the CWG, there was a big shift—more funding, more infrastructure, and more awareness. Hosting the Olympics or CWG will bring professionalism and encourage kids to take up sports.”
He also touches on the shortcomings he saw in Paris: “There were issues with air conditioning, long travel times, and overcrowded food halls. India, I believe, can host it better. We treat guests well, and if we do it right, it can transform our sporting culture.”
Learning from Legends, Leading the Way
Harmeet credits senior players like Sharath Kamal for inspiring a generation. “Before Sharath bhai, no one believed Indian players could play in European leagues or reach top rankings. He changed that mindset for all of us.”
Now, Harmeet finds himself in a leadership role, mentoring young talents like Sreeja Akula and Payas Jain. “I try to help them when they have doubts or questions. But I also learn from them—their fearlessness, their mindset. It’s a two-way street.”
He adds with humility, “I’m still focused on improving my own game, but if I can guide someone even a little bit, that’s something I’d be proud of.”
The Road Ahead
With Paris 2024 behind him and LA 2028 on the horizon, Harmeet Desai isn’t done yet. He’s determined to build on the lessons he’s learned and continue pushing the boundaries of Indian table tennis.
“I’m living my dream. But there’s more to achieve, more to give back. For me, it’s always about getting better each day.”
Harmeet Desai’s journey isn’t just about medals and milestones—it’s about belief. In oneself. In the sport. And in the idea that with the right support, Indian athletes can conquer the world.