All tickets for the singles, doubles and mixed finals being played on the last three days of the tournament have now been sold. If you missed out on them, don’t worry. Here are seven great reasons why the first five days of the LIEBHERR World Table Tennis Championships at the Messe Düsseldorf are the place to be.

Reason 1: See the stars

The qualification is being played on Monday, 29 May, with the main draw matches starting on Tuesday evening. This means that Ma Long, Dima Ovtcharov, Ding Ning and friends will start their title campaigns on Wednesday, 31 May, at the latest. So if you want to see the stars in action, why not book your tickets for Wednesday now?

Reason 2: Players from around the globe

700 athletes from 130 nations are coming together in Düsseldorf. And some players from smaller nations reach the pinnacle of their careers at the world championships, so make sure you don’t miss it. Support your nation’s top players in the singles, doubles and mixed events – all taking place during the first four days of the tournament.

Reason 3: Get close to the action

Over the first two days, 32 tables in two halls will be in action. And you can still get your table tennis fix watching games taking place at 16 tables on Wednesday and eight on Thursday. Your ticket lets you pick who to watch and there are no allocated seats. And if you want to get really close, head for the second hall.

Reason 4: Table tennis from 10 till 10

Unable to get there during the day? Do you know that the last matches of the day are scheduled for 9.30pm on the first four days? So you’re guaranteed to catch some action until 10pm. And your ticket gets you home on regional public transport free of charge.

Reason 5: Affordable tickets – and under-18s get in free

Ticket prices start at €15 for Monday and Tuesday (concessions €10). On Wednesday and Thursday, they start at €25 for adults (concessions €15). Entry for all under-18s is free on the first four days, but under-16s need to be accompanied by an adult ticketholder. There is no limit on the number of under-16s an adult can take along. And don’t forget – there are no allocated seats so you can choose where to sit.

Reason 6: Travel free on the Rhein-Ruhr public transport system

Travel to and from the venue (2nd class only) is included in your ticket. The system covers more than 7,300 square kilometers and includes large towns and cities like Düsseldorf and Dortmund. So you don’t have to worry about getting home.

Reason 7: Shop and play

Track down that bargain from top table tennis brands and browse their full collection. And for those who want to grab a bat themselves, why not head over to the Fun-Park in Hall 7? Pit your prowess against the table-tennis robot or measure the speed of your serve and return. There are also a number of tables in different shapes and sizes ready for an impromptu game.

Want to know more? Check the latest information on the order of play  and how to book your tickets.

Note: Monday, 5 June, is a public holiday in Germany.