Bidding for World Table Tennis tournaments in 2021 is still ongoing ©Getty Images

World Table Tennis (WTT) has reminded cities that bidding is still open to host competitions for its 2021 calendar despite more than 40 already stating their interest.

With competitions at all tiers from the Grand Smashes, the largest events of the WTT Series, through to some of the smaller competitions, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has encouraged cities to be "put in the spotlight like never before".

The ITTF is aiming to broadcast tournaments through extensive global television distribution, having had over one billion viewers in 2019, as well as showcasing host cities and events through the WTT and ITTF's social platforms.

It is also looking to have player appearances at iconic landmarks in host cities, integrate features of host cities for further promotion and market fans to visit the host cities.

There will also be chances for local brands to be associated with global table tennis as well as opportunities for the sport's top athletes to interact with the local community through school and hospital visits.

Cities such as London, Tokyo and Melbourne have already put forward bids with interest coming from National Associations as well as corporate and Government sectors with event promoters.

WTT event strategy director Stephen Duckitt said, "COVID-19 has undeniably shaken the world of sport this year, but thanks to the proactive steps taken and the forward thinking in launching WTT in 2021, the entire table tennis community is geared up to building a brighter future for the sport once the pandemic eventually passes."

Interested parties can still submit their expression of interest or contact WTT to discuss joining the other cities in the running to host a WTT event in 2021 and the future.