North Bethesda, MD (01/02/26) – Globally recognized table tennis and pickleball equipment brand JOOLA is thrilled to announce the signing of Brazilian superstar Hugo Calderano. Considered by many to be the greatest table tennis player ever to emerge from the Americas, Calderano currently ranks number 3 in the world, a record-high position by a player from the region, which he first achieved in 2022. 
 
Hugo joins an already impressive roster of JOOLA table tennis talent, which includes 4-time Olympians Liam Pitchford and Lily Zhang, the long-time leading players of the English and US National Teams, respectively, as well as top international players from around the globe and a rapidly growing team of young future stars from Europe. 

 “I’m excited to begin this new chapter with JOOLA, a brand with such deep roots and influence in table tennis. JOOLA has played an important role in the sport’s history, and I’m proud to represent them as I continue to pursue my goals on the world stage,” said Calderano. “Together, I believe we can help bring even more visibility and energy to table tennis and inspire players across the Americas and beyond.” 

JOOLA’s rich heritage in table tennis dates to 1952, when the company produced its first table tennis table in Germany. Since then, the brand has grown into a trusted name recognized around the world. JOOLA equipment has been featured on some of the sport’s biggest stages, serving as the official table provider for the 1996 Atlanta, 2000 Sydney, and 2004 Athens Summer Olympic Games. 

“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Hugo to Team JOOLA,” said Richard Lee, CEO and Owner of JOOLA. “Hugo isn’t just one of the most technically gifted and powerful players in the world; he’s a true pioneer for table tennis in the Americas. His passion, vision, and achievements align perfectly with JOOLA’s legacy and ambition in the sport.”

For more than 25 years, JOOLA has continued to invest in the growth of table tennis in the United States. As the host of the North American Team Championships, held annually over Thanksgiving weekend at the Gaylord National Resort in Washington, D.C., the event has become one of the largest and most celebrated table tennis gatherings in the region. 

“One of One” Campaign 

To launch the partnership, JOOLA crafted a campaign titled “One of One” that reflects who Hugo Calderano is, both as an athlete and as a person whose values define his legacy. Hugo isn’t just joining JOOLA as a signature player; he is joining as someone who stands apart through his dedication to family, his relentless pursuit of becoming the best in the world, and his unwavering commitment to giving back to the community and the sport he loves. 

Designed around Hugo’s individuality, the campaign celebrates the rare combination of character, community, and talent that makes him truly unique.  

JOOLA’s partnership with Hugo marks an important step in the company’s commitment to table tennis, signaling a renewed focus on innovative product development, enhanced quality and performance, and the continued growth of the sport that both JOOLA and Hugo are passionate about. 
 
About JOOLA 
Founded in 1952, JOOLA is a globally recognized brand specializing in table tennis and pickleball equipment. With a commitment to innovation and quality, JOOLA continues to lead the way in racket sports, providing athletes and enthusiasts with the tools they need to excel at every level. www.joola.com