Sreeja Akula, once hailed as the rising star of Indian table tennis, finds herself navigating a challenging phase in 2025.
After a stellar 2024 season that saw her climb to a career-high world ranking of 21 and become India’s top-ranked female paddler, Akula’s recent performances have not mirrored her previous successes.
A Remarkable 2024
The year 2024 was transformative for Akula. She began the season ranked 89th globally and concluded it at 23rd, marking a significant ascent in the international rankings.
Her victories included a historic win at the WTT Contender Lagos, making her the first Indian to clinch a singles title at that level. Additionally, she secured singles titles at the WTT Feeder Corpus Christi and WTT Feeder Beirut II.
Notably, Akula defeated then-world No. 2 Wang Yidi in straight games during the World Team Table Tennis Championships, showcasing her ability to compete with the sport’s elite.
Her performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics further solidified her status, as she reached the round of 16, becoming only the second Indian to achieve this feat in Olympic table tennis.
The 2025 Downturn
Contrasting her previous year’s achievements, Akula’s 2025 season has been marked by early exits and a noticeable dip in form. Participating in 11 international events, she failed to progress beyond the round of 16 in any tournament.
Her current world ranking has slipped to 35th, reflecting the challenges she faces on the international circuit.
A closer look at her 2025 performances reveals consistent struggles:
- WTT Contender Doha: Lost in Round of 16 to Qian Tianyi (WR 11)
- WTT Contender Muscat: Lost in Round of 16 to Sakura Yokoi (WR 33)
- Singapore Smash: Exited in Round of 64 against He Zhuojia (WR 30)
- Asian Cup: Group stage losses to Sun Yingsha (WR 1) and Chein Tung Chuan (WR 47)
- WTT Champions Chongqing: Defeated in Round of 32 by Satsuki Odo (WR 8)
- WTT Star Contender Chennai: Lost in Round of 32 to Krittwika Roy (WR 154)
- WTT Champions Incheon: Exited in Round of 32 against Kuai Man (WR 7)
- ITTF World Cup Macao: Group stage loss to Bernadette Szocs (WR 13)
- WTT Contender Tunis: Early exit against Christina Kallberg (WR 76)
Notably, in six of these events, Akula was defeated by lower-ranked opponents, indicating a potential lapse in consistency and confidence.
Analyzing the Decline
Several factors may contribute to Akula’s recent downturn. In August 2024, she suffered a stress fracture, leading to her withdrawal from the Ultimate Table Tennis league.
Although she returned to competition after a six-week recovery, the injury may have impacted her physical readiness and match fitness. Moreover, the psychological toll of recovering from an injury and the pressure to replicate past successes could affect performance levels.
Her long-time coach, Somnath Ghosh, who has mentored her for over 14 years, faces the challenge of restoring Akula’s form.
Their enduring partnership has been pivotal in her development, and their collaborative efforts will be crucial in navigating this phase.
Glimmers of Hope
Despite the setbacks, there are positive signs. At the WTT Contender Tunis, while Akula faced an early singles exit, she reached the quarterfinals in the mixed doubles category alongside G. Sathiyan.
This performance indicates that she retains the skill and competitive spirit necessary to succeed at high levels.
Akula’s next major opportunity to regain her footing will be at the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals in Doha, commencing on May 17. This tournament presents a platform for her to demonstrate resilience and potentially reverse her current trajectory.
While 2025 has presented challenges, Akula’s track record suggests she possesses the determination and capability to overcome this period of adversity. Her journey underscores the volatile nature of competitive sports, where form can fluctuate, but perseverance remains key.
Sreeja Akula’s recent struggles highlight the unpredictable dynamics of professional sports. After a breakthrough year in 2024, her current challenges serve as a reminder of the continuous effort required to maintain elite performance levels.
With the support of her coaching team and her own resilience, Akula has the potential to rebound and reestablish herself as a formidable presence in international table tennis.
