The spotlight at the WTT Europe Smash 2025 in Sweden fell firmly on the much-awaited all-India women’s singles clash as Sreeja Akula overcame Manika Batra 3-2 in a nail-biting encounter to secure her place in the Round of 32.
For Indian table tennis fans, it was a match that brought together the country’s top two paddlers in an international showdown, only the second time the pair has faced each other on the World Table Tennis (WTT) Tour. The contest lived up to its billing. Both players, known for their contrasting styles—Manika’s defensive chops and deceptive blocks against Sreeja’s sharp attacking play and consistency—served up an absorbing duel that went down to the deciding game. In the end, it was Sreeja who held her nerve, reversing the result of their previous WTT meeting in 2021, when Manika had prevailed 3-2.
A Battle of India’s Best
Matches between compatriots on the global stage often carry more than just ranking implications. For Sreeja, currently India’s most consistent performer after a strong domestic season and international outings, this was a chance to make a statement. For Manika, India’s most recognizable table tennis star, the clash was an opportunity to reassert her dominance. From the opening exchanges, it was clear that neither player was willing to give an inch. Sreeja started brightly, pushing the pace and targeting Manika’s weaker forehand side.
Sreeja Akula’s Unstoppable Rise : Titles, Setbacks and Los Angeles Dreams
She took the opening game, but Manika responded in typical fashion, using her backhand blocks and variations in spin to frustrate her opponent. The next three games swung back and forth, with both players producing moments of brilliance. The rallies grew longer, the stakes higher, and by the time the match reached the decider, the crowd knew they were watching a special contest. Sreeja’s composure in the fifth game was the difference. She stayed aggressive without over-hitting, capitalizing on short returns from Manika and maintaining a steady rhythm on her serves.
Closing out the match 3-2, she celebrated with a fist pump that captured both the relief and significance of the moment.
Head-to-Head Balance Restored
Before this clash, the only previous meeting between Sreeja and Manika on the WTT World Tour had come in 2021, when Manika edged a close 3-2 battle. The result in Sweden now levels their head-to-head on the international stage and underlines how much Sreeja has grown in confidence and ability over the past four years. While Manika remains the senior figure with global recognition, Sreeja’s steady rise has made her India’s most reliable singles player. She has consistently broken into main draws at WTT events and, crucially, has shown she can win under pressure.
This victory over her higher-profile compatriot will give her a massive boost as she looks ahead to tougher challenges in the Round of 32.
A Strong Indian Presence in Sweden
The India story at Europe Smash 2025 was not just about Sreeja’s triumph. In the men’s singles, Manav Thakkar, ranked World No. 43 and India’s top-ranked male player, produced one of the biggest upsets of the first round. He defeated Japan’s Hiroto Shinozuka, the World No. 23 and reigning men’s doubles World Champion, by 3-1 (12-10, 11-5, 5-11, 11-9) in the Round of 64.
It was Thakkar’s first win against Shinozuka in four meetings, having lost their previous three encounters. The result also showcased his growth as a player capable of beating top-25 opponents on the world stage. The Indian paddler controlled the pace with aggressive forehand play and smart service variations, keeping Shinozuka under pressure throughout. The victory has set up a Round of 32 clash against An Jaehyun (KOR)
Elsewhere, India’s Yashaswini Ghorpade, who impressed in qualifying, fell to World No. 5 Wang Yidi of China in straight games (0-3). The young paddler, however, gained valuable exposure competing against one of the world’s very best.
Doubles Interest for India
Beyond singles, Indian eyes will also be on the doubles draw. The pairing of Manav Thakkar and Manush Shah, seeded fifth in the men’s doubles event, is considered a genuine medal contender. Their form over the past season has been encouraging, with consistent performances against high-ranking pairs. Success in Sweden could further cement their place among the elite duos heading into a busy year of international competition.
Sreeja’s victory over Manika is significant on multiple levels. It highlights the increasing depth in Indian women’s table tennis, where younger players are now capable of challenging established stars. It also strengthens Sreeja’s credentials as India’s best hope for consistent singles breakthroughs at the WTT level. For Manika, the loss is a reminder of the rising competition at home and the need to recalibrate ahead of upcoming tournaments.
For Manav, the win over Shinozuka is arguably the biggest of his career so far. Beating a top-25 opponent and reigning world champion sends a clear message that he belongs in the upper tier of the sport. His run in Sweden could become a turning point as he targets further progress on the world circuit. With Sreeja and Manav both advancing to the Round of 32, Indian hopes remain high at the Europe Smash. While the road ahead will only get tougher, the performances so far underline the steady progress Indian table tennis has made on the global stage.
In a tournament that has already delivered drama and upsets, the all-India clash between Sreeja Akula and Manika Batra will be remembered as a defining moment. It was a match that showcased the competitiveness, talent, and ambition of India’s paddlers—and perhaps, a glimpse into the future direction of the sport in the country.
