🏓 A Historic First: Recycled Ball Makes International Debut at Europe Smash

 

For the first time in table tennis history, a ball made with recycled plastic has been officially used in international competition.

The DHS RS40+, manufactured using 65% recycled ABS plastic, made its international debut at Europe Smash – Sweden 2025 in Malmö, marking a significant milestone in the ITTF’s commitment to sustainability.

This groundbreaking moment is the result of years of vision, innovation, and collaboration, led by ITTF President Petra Sörling, who has placed environmental sustainability at the core of her presidency.

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🛠 From Concept to Competition

The journey from concept to competition was both swift and thorough. Recycled material sourcing was finalized earlier this year, and the first prototype was submitted to the ITTF Equipment Department on February 27, 2025.

More than 65% of the RS40+’s raw materials come from recycled household appliances—such as refrigerators, televisions, and washing machines—giving waste a second life without sacrificing performance.

Following extensive laboratory testing and on-table validation, the RS40+ received official ITTF approval on March 18, 2025. Simultaneously, elite players were given samples to train with ahead of the tournament, ensuring ample time for adaptation and feedback.

One key trial came from Sharath Kamal Achanta, Co-Chair of the ITTF Athletes Commission, who tested the ball during the 2025 World Championships Finals. The combination of technical evaluation and player input confirmed the RS40+ met the performance standards required at the highest level of the sport.

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🤝 Collaboration Across the Ecosystem

This innovation was made possible through close collaboration between the ITTF Equipment Department, DHS (Double Happiness Sports), and the global table tennis community.

The Equipment Department played a pivotal role not only in technical validation, but also in guiding the ball’s development to comply with international competition standards.

This initiative showcased how manufacturers, athletes, and governing bodies working together can deliver meaningful progress in sustainability without compromising sporting excellence.

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🌍 Leadership That Drives Real Change

From the outset of her presidency, Petra Sörling prioritized concrete environmental actions within the sport. She proactively engaged manufacturers in early discussions to explore eco-friendly alternatives to traditional equipment.

“This truly feels like a dream, to stand here today with a recycled ball in play,” said Sörling.
“From the very beginning, sustainability was a priority. I met with manufacturers, and they responded with enthusiasm. After a long process of research, testing, and trials, we’ve reached a milestone: a recycled ball that meets elite-level expectations. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved—together.”

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🎙 What the Players Say

Of course, the ultimate test of innovation is on the court.

Adriana Díaz, ITTF Planet Ambassador, expressed strong support:

“These changes are important for our future. The ball plays really well—I’m very happy with how it feels.”

Sun Yingsha, World No.1 and three-time Grand Smash Champion, added:

“After two days of training, I didn’t feel much difference. It feels familiar, comfortable, and I’m confident competing with it.”

Patrick Franziska highlighted its stability:

“The RS40+ feels consistent and slightly easier to control under pressure. I’ve been using it in intense practice sessions with zero breakages—even on edge shots.”

Omar Assar shared his experience:

“For my style of play, it actually feels better. Every player has preferences, but this ball really suits me. And knowing it’s made from recycled plastic makes it even more impressive.”

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🏁 A Milestone That Redefines the Future

The Europe Smash 2025 tournament marks the start of a new era for global table tennis. According to ITTF Group CEO Steve Dainton:

“What DHS has accomplished proves that innovation and performance can go hand in hand. The RS40+ has been tested under Grand Smash conditions and has delivered.”

This launch is part of the wider ITTF Sustainability Action Plan, which aims to integrate environmental responsibility at every level—from grassroots development to world-class events and equipment innovation.

With the RS40+ now officially in play, table tennis demonstrates that high performance and high purpose can go side by side.

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🟢 In Summary:

• ✅ DHS RS40+ is the first recycled plastic ball approved and used in elite international play.

• 🌱 65% of its material comes from recycled appliances like refrigerators and TVs.

• 🔬 Rigorously tested and fully approved by ITTF.

• 🏓 Endorsed by top athletes including Sun Yingsha, Adriana Díaz, Patrick Franziska, and Omar Assar.

• 🌍 A major milestone for sustainability in sport—driven by President Petra Sörling’s leadership.

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✅ gre78.tv proudly supports this historic step forward.
This is only the beginning of what’s possible when sustainability meets sporting excellence.

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🔗 This article is based on official information provided by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). Original reporting and player quotes sourced from ittf.com.