Portugal paddler Freitas aims to do well in big events

Portugal's top table tennis player Marcos Freitas says doing well in big tournaments like the Olympics, World or European championship matters more than world ranking.

The world number 14, here to represent Dabang Smashers TTC in the inaugural Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT), which begins tomorrow, said, "performances in the big events matter the most.

"Numbers (ranking) don't bother me too much. My aim is to keep improving and work on technique and strategy. If I improve, I can win medals in most important tournaments like Olympics, World Championship, European Championship.

Performances in them are more memorable." A silver medallist at the 2015 European Table Tennis Championships, the 29-year-old Freitas said improved performances in international tournaments had seen the sport grow in his country in recent years.

"Some years ago, it (TT) was not really popular. Since we have had good results at the international level, the sport has grown and we are recognised for that. When we walk on the street, some people ask us for pictures and autographs. They recognise and respect us," the southpaw from Madeira, who was once ranked as high as No.7 in the world, told

(This article has not been edited by DNA's editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)