ITTF President Adham Sharara spoke of the reasons behind choosing San-Ei as official table provider for the next Olympic and Paralympic cycle following the announcement.

"The bidding for the table for 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games was the most competitive since I became ITTF President." he said.

"It would seem that being the table supplier for the Olympics has increased in value tremendously, as table manufacturers compete to get this prestigious right.

"The ITTF is delighted that San-Ei of Japan is the successful bidder for Rio 2016.

San-Ei will provide tables for practice and competitive events at Rio 2016

"San-Ei's reputation as a world class table manufacturer is well known.

"San-Ei has also sponsored World Championships before, so it is no surprise that San-Ei has the confidence to provide to the ITTF and Rio 2016 a unique design, whilst maintaining top quality.

"Our long time partner, Double Happiness (DHS), will be the ball provider, so we are sure that both companies, San-Ei and DHS will ensure top quality equipment for top performance by the athletes."

The deal will see San-Ei provide all tables for practice and competitive use at Rio 2016, which will take place at the 5,000-capacity Riocentro Pavilion 3.

San-Ei President Shin Miura also expressed his delight at the completion of the deal.

"All of us at San-Ei, are proud of being selected as the official table supplier for Rio de Janeiro 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games" he said

"We are sure our fantastic tables will be a perfect fit for not only the first Olympic and Paralympic games in South America, but also fast growing table tennis family in Brazil, which is one of the fasting growing table tennis areas in the world.

"We promise to do everyone proud."

The tables to be used at Rio will be unveiled in early 2016, with promises of a revolutionary design being made.

The design will be exclusively revealed on facebook.com/ITTFWORLD.

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