International Table Tennis Federation (1 Cititor)

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Welcome to the home of the International Table Tennis Federation! The latest Table Tennis news and results can be found here on the official ITTF website.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

Picture this: a 15-year-old girl steps onto the court at Wembley in 1954, paddle in hand, representing England at the World Table Tennis Championships. Fast-forward 15 years, and that same girl is lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish on Centre Court at Wimbledon, having conquered tennis’s most prestigious tournament.

This isn’t sporting fiction – it’s the remarkable true story of Ann Jones CBE, a woman who didn’t just excel in one racquet sport, but dominated two.

When someone has claimed Wimbledon singles glory and been crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year, they’ve earned their place amongst British sporting royalty. But when they’ve also collected 10 World Championships medals in an entirely different sport as a teenager? Well, that elevates them to legendary status.

Table tennis wasn’t just Ann’s passion – it was the family business. Born into what can only be described as a table tennis dynasty, she grew up surrounded by the sport’s elite. Her father Adrian Haydon wasn’t just any England international; he was a World Championships phenomenon, accumulating an incredible 14 medals between 1928’s Stockholm championships and 1953’s edition in Bucharest.

Her mother Doris Jordan and aunt Marjorie Haydon were also England internationals, meaning young Ann was practically raised with a paddle in her hand. “My parents brought me up to be a table tennis champion,” she reflects, and the results speak for themselves.

In 1954, just one year after her father claimed his final World Championships medal, 15-year-old Ann made her debut on the sport’s biggest stage. The venue? Wembley. The same city that will welcome the world’s best teams back in 2026 for our centenary celebrations.

That debut was nothing short of spectacular. Partnering with Kathy Best in the Women’s Doubles, the left-handed teenager reached the final in an all-English affair. Though they claimed silver – losing to twins Diane and Rosalind Rowe on their 21st birthdays in a moment of perfect sporting theatre – Ann had announced herself on the world stage.

The four English players combined forces to secure team bronze, and Ann’s medal collection had officially begun.

What followed was a medal rush that would make any athlete envious. 1955 brought more success, as did 1956. Then came 1957’s Stockholm championships – a tournament that would test even the strongest competitor’s resolve. Ann reached all three finals that year, only to face heartbreak in each one. Yet even in defeat, she had proven herself among the world’s absolute best.

1959 brought further medals, complemented by European team gold in 1958 and a treasure trove of international honours. By the time Ann decided to transition to tennis, she had accumulated 10 World Championships medals – a haul that places her among England’s most decorated table tennis players of all time.

The switch to tennis might have surprised some, but Ann’s racquet sports mastery transcended boundaries. Her tennis career would eclipse even her table tennis achievements – two French Open singles titles and that unforgettable Wimbledon triumph in 1969.

But perhaps most significantly, alongside icons like Billie Jean King, Ann became a pioneer for professionalism and female equality in sport. Her influence extended far beyond the court, shaping the landscape for future generations of female athletes.

As we build towards London 2026 – marking 100 years since both the first World Championships and the ITTF’s founding – Ann’s story provides the perfect bridge between past and present. She was there when London last hosted the World Championships in 1954, claiming her first medals on English soil.

Now, as we prepare to welcome the world back to London for this centenary celebration, Ann’s journey from teenage table tennis prodigy to global sporting icon reminds us why these championships matter. They’re not just about medals and trophies – they’re about dreams realised and legends born.

In our exclusive interview, Ann shares insights from both careers, reflects on the evolution of racquet sports, and discusses what it means to see London hosting the World Championships once again as we celebrate 100 years of world-class table tennis competition.

Source: Table Tennis England

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[Tristan Lavier]

On 25 August, table tennis once again proved its power to bring people together as the national teams of Denmark and China faced each other in a Friendship Cup held in Copenhagen. The event marked the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Denmark and China, and was made possible through the close cooperation of the Danish Table Tennis Association, the Chinese Embassy in Denmark, and the Denmark–China Friendship Association.

Sun Yingsha and Anders Lind / Photo: Bordtennis Danmark

The celebration brought together sporting and diplomatic leaders, including Hans Natorp, President of the Danish Sport Association; Wang Xuefeng, Chinese Ambassador to Denmark; He Xiao, Secretary-General of the Chinese Table Tennis Association; Henrik Vendelbo, President of the Danish Table Tennis Association; and Petra Sörling, ITTF President.

Henrik Vendelbo, President of the Danish Table Tennis Association

The players who took part reflected the breadth and inclusivity of table tennis: from global stars such as Sun Yingsha, Lin Shidong, Denmark’s Jonathan Groth, and Anders Lind, as well as Paralympic champion Peter Rosenmeier, and also players with Parkinson’s using table tennis as a tool for health. This diversity highlighted table tennis as a sport for all, and for life.

He Xiao, Secretary-General of the Chinese Table Tennis Association, and Petra Sörling, ITTF President / Photo: Bordtennis Danmark

The Friendship Cup was a symbol of how sport can strengthen ties between nations. Echoing the spirit of Ping Pong Diplomacy, which helped shape international relations more than 50 years ago, this event underlined how table tennis continues to serve as a bridge between cultures and communities. With passionate rallies, laughter, and warm exchanges both on and off the table.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

One year ago today, table tennis claimed its moment at the centre of the sporting world as the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games opened with breathtaking ceremony. Four-time Paralympic gold medallist Fabien Lamirault stepped into immortality as one of the final torchbearers to ignite the Paralympic cauldron, whilst eleven table tennis athletes carried their nations’ flags in a powerful demonstration of the sport’s global reach.

As the most successful French athlete in the Paris 2024 delegation, Fabien Lamirault’s selection as torchbearer carried profound significance. The four-time Paralympic champion’s journey to this moment – from promising young player to Paralympic legend – embodied everything the Paralympic movement represents about triumph over adversity and the pursuit of excellence.

When Lamirault helped set the cauldron ablaze, sending flames soaring into the Parisian sky, he wasn’t just lighting a fire – he was illuminating the dreams of countless Para athletes worldwide and announcing that Paralympic sport had never been more prominent or more celebrated.

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The sight of eleven Para table tennis players carrying their nations’ flags spoke volumes about the sport’s truly international appeal. Leading the parade was Spain’s Alvaro Valera, competing in his remarkable seventh Paralympic Games. As the holder of Spain’s only Paralympic table tennis gold medal from Sydney 2000, Valera represented the enduring legacy of Paralympic excellence.

Slovakia’s Alena Kanova matched Valera’s longevity, making her own seventh Paralympic appearance whilst carrying her nation’s flag. The 2000 Sydney gold medallist’s presence demonstrated how Paralympic careers can span decades, inspiring generation after generation of athletes.

At the other end of the experience spectrum stood Chinese Taipei’s Chen Po Yen, just 17 years old but already ranked sixth in the world in Men’s Class 11. His rapid rise since entering the scene in 2022 exemplified the sport’s ability to nurture young talent and provide platforms for extraordinary achievement.

For several flag bearers, the opening ceremony marked the realisation of Paralympic dreams years in the making. Indonesia’s Leli Marlina, Romania’s Camelia Ciripan, and Saudi Arabia’s Ghaliah Alanazi all made their Paralympic debuts in the most spectacular fashion possible – leading their nations into the ceremony as flag bearers.

Their presence highlighted table tennis’s role in expanding Paralympic participation globally, bringing new nations and new stories to the world’s biggest stage for Para sport.

As the flames rose above Paris and the Paralympic cauldron burned bright, the stage was set for what would become an extraordinary Paralympic Games for table tennis. The sport’s prominence at the opening ceremony proved to be a perfect preview of the drama, skill, and inspiration that would unfold over the following days of competition.

Fabien Lamirault’s torchbearing moment and the parade of table tennis flag bearers had announced to the world that Paralympic table tennis was ready for its close-up. The athletes had carried their flags with pride; now it was time to compete for Paralympic glory.

Looking back one year later, 28 August 2024 stands as the night when table tennis took centre stage at the Paralympic movement’s grandest occasion. From Lamirault’s historic torchbearing to the diverse group of flag bearers, the opening ceremony perfectly captured both the sport’s rich history and its bright future.

Sometimes opening ceremonies set the tone for everything that follows. Paris 2024 certainly delivered that perfect beginning for Paralympic table tennis.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

One year ago today, Paralympic table tennis commenced at Paris 2024 in breathtaking fashion, marking not just the beginning of another Paralympic tournament, but the dawn of a new era. For the first time since 1976, doubles returned to the Paralympic programme, whilst mixed doubles made its historic debut. Amidst the electrifying atmosphere, two legendary athletes achieved an extraordinary milestone by joining the exclusive “Club 8” – competing in their eighth Paralympic Games.

The opening morning saw South Paris Arena 4 filled with doubles action for the first time in nearly five decades. The atmosphere was electric as crowds witnessed history unfold, with the sound of roaring applause and waves of colourful banners creating an energy that participants described as unlike anything they had experienced before.

France’s Fabien Lamirault, fresh from lighting the Paralympic cauldron just one day earlier, gave the home crowd everything to celebrate alongside partner Julien Michaud. Their thrilling Class 3 Men’s Doubles quarterfinal victory over Poland’s Rafal Crupper and Tomasz Jakimczuk went the full distance (11-3, 7-11, 14-12, 7-11, 11-9), securing not just a semifinal place but guaranteeing a Paralympic medal.

“It was just amazing, just incredible,” reflected Lamirault afterwards. “Everyone was cheering for our table and it was the most incredible atmosphere. It was my fourth Paralympics and to play at home with this crowd on fire… I think I’ve never seen before and I think we’ll probably never see again.”

The most groundbreaking moment came with the introduction of mixed doubles to Paralympic competition for the first time ever. Slovakia’s Alena Kanova, making her seventh Paralympic appearance, partnered with Boris Travnicek to defeat Egypt’s Khaled Ramadan and Fawzia Elshamy in straight sets, writing their names into the history books as winners of the first Paralympic mixed doubles match.

Brazil’s Filipe Manor Luis and Danielle Rauen provided one of the day’s biggest shocks, defeating Japan’s highly-rated pairing in Class 17 Mixed Doubles. Their victory represented the spirit of Paralympic competition – where preparation, strategy, and determination can overcome any challenge.

Amongst all the historic firsts, perhaps the most remarkable achievement belonged to two extraordinary athletes who reached a milestone that defines Paralympic greatness. Spain’s Jose Manuel Ruiz and Slovakia’s Jan Riapos both competed in their eighth Paralympic Games, joining an exclusive circle of athletes whose longevity and dedication defy comprehension.

Ruiz, who made his Paralympic debut at Atlanta 1996 at just 17 years old, has now competed across eight consecutive Paralympic Games. His career spans generations, accumulating five Paralympic medals including silver in singles and teams events. At Paris 2024, despite being unable to claim victory in his Class 18 Men’s Doubles opener alongside Alejandro Diaz, his presence alone represented something profound about human perseverance.

“For me this is so special but not only for me,” Ruiz reflected. “When I say me I mean my whole team, my coaches from all my career, my family, parents, friends, sponsors and the Spanish federation. I think that this is a big moment, this is the first time an athlete in Spain has played eight Paralympic Games.”

Jan Riapos matched this incredible achievement, also beginning his Paralympic journey at Atlanta 1996. The now 56-year-old Slovakian has accumulated an impressive medal collection including gold medals in Athens 2004 and London 2012, with his ultimate goal being to clinch gold medals across three separate decades.

The day also showcased Paralympic table tennis’s incredible age range. Whilst legends like Ruiz and Riapos competed in their eighth Games, Great Britain’s Bly Twomey, at just 14 years old, became one of the youngest ever Paralympic table tennis medallists by securing bronze in Class 14 Women’s Doubles alongside Felicity Packard.

As competition began in earnest, the atmosphere in South Paris Arena 4 proved that Paralympic table tennis had never been more popular or more celebrated. The return of doubles after 48 years, the historic debut of mixed doubles, and the presence of eight-time Paralympians created a perfect storm of sporting significance.

Looking back one year later, 30 August 2024 stands as the day when Paralympic table tennis began its most successful and celebrated chapter. The combination of historic firsts, legendary achievements, and that unmistakable Paralympic atmosphere had set the stage for what would become an extraordinary tournament.

Sometimes opening days exceed all expectations. This was certainly one of those perfect beginnings.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

One year ago today, history was made at South Paris Arena 4 as the first Paralympic Para table tennis gold medals in doubles competition since 1976 were awarded in a night filled with emotion and extraordinary performances. China dominated the medal ceremonies, claiming both gold medals on offer whilst showcasing the depth and excellence that defines Paralympic table tennis at its highest level.

The evening belonged to China as they secured both doubles titles in commanding fashion. Huang Wenjuan and Jin Yucheng opened the medal ceremonies by claiming Class 14 Women’s Doubles gold, defeating Germany’s Stephanie Grebe and Juliane Wolf in a thrilling four-game encounter (11-4, 9-11, 11-8, 11-8).

The victory held special significance for 16-year-old Jin Yucheng, making her Paralympic debut after only beginning international competition in 2023. Her rapid rise to Paralympic champion exemplified the inspiring nature of Paralympic sport.

“It feels so good. I never imagined I could get a gold medal,” reflected Huang afterwards. “This was a very good start for the whole Chinese team. We are good friends, too, and we will be even better friends after winning this gold medal together.”

The second gold medal of the evening went to China’s Liu Jing and Xue Juan in Class 5 Women’s Doubles, who defeated Korea Republic’s Seo Su Yen and Yoon Jiyu 3-1 (11-7, 11-7, 8-11, 11-9). Their victory added to already spectacular Paralympic legacies – Liu now holding eight gold medals from four Paralympic Games, whilst Xue secured her fourth gold from two Paralympic appearances.

Both athletes have maintained perfect Paralympic records, winning every single event they’ve entered throughout their careers. Xue’s emotional reflection captured the personal significance of Paralympic success: “I am very happy to win tonight for my daughter. She is still young and I hope I can have more wonderful stories to tell her when she grows up.”

The bronze medals provided their own compelling narratives. In Class 14 Women’s Doubles, Great Britain’s Felicity Packard and Bly Twomey secured bronze, with 14-year-old Twomey becoming one of the youngest Paralympic table tennis medallists in history.

“It feels amazing I didn’t think I would get a medal this young and I was really surprised today,” said Twomey, her words capturing the wonder of Paralympic achievement.

Partner Felicity Packard reflected on both the achievement and the extraordinary atmosphere: “It’s been incredible playing with Bly and our performance to get the bronze medal. The atmosphere has just been absolutely incredible, I think we were prepared for the crowds but nothing like this.”

Norway’s Aida Music Dahlen and Merethe Tveiten shared the Class 14 bronze medals, whilst Brazil’s Caria Oliveira and Joyce Oliveria and Thailand’s Dararat Asayut and Chilchitparyak Bootwansirina claimed bronze in Class 5.

These first medal ceremonies of Paris 2024 set the standard for everything that would follow. The quality of competition, the emotional significance of victory, and the incredible atmosphere in South Paris Arena 4 demonstrated that Paralympic table tennis had never been stronger or more celebrated.Looking back one year later, 31 August 2024 stands as the night when Paralympic table tennis reclaimed its doubles heritage in the most spectacular fashion possible. From Jin Yucheng’s remarkable debut triumph to the legends Liu Jing and Xue Juan extending their perfect records, from Bly Twomey’s historic bronze to the emotional scenes of celebration throughout South Paris Arena 4.

The 48-year wait for Paralympic doubles medals had ended in the most fitting way – with golden performances, inspiring stories, and moments that perfectly captured the essence of Paralympic sport. Sometimes sporting returns exceed even the highest expectations. This was certainly one of those magical evenings.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

One year ago today, Para table tennis witnessed two historic moments that perfectly captured the sport’s rich heritage and exciting future. Slovakia’s Jan Riapos, the Club 8 legend competing in his eighth Paralympic Games, claimed his fifth Paralympic gold medal. Meanwhile, China’s Zhao Shuai and Mao Jingdian etched their names in history by winning the first-ever Paralympic Para table tennis mixed doubles title.

At 56 years old, Jan Riapos partnered with Paralympic debutant Peter Lovas to defeat Korea Republic’s Hang Yeongjin and Park Sung Joo 3-1 (12-10, 7-11, 11-7, 11-8) in the Class 4 Men’s Doubles final. “The doubles is a totally different game than the singles,” reflected Riapos afterwards. “This is a great achievement for me.”

For partner Peter Lovas, making his Paralympic debut, the moment was pure magic: “I feel incredible, I can’t describe how I feel. This is my first Paralympic Games and we won the gold medal, so it is absolutely amazing.”

The partnership showcased the beautiful blend of experience and fresh talent that makes Paralympic sport so compelling. “We spent a lot of time preparing for this,” Riapos explained. “I tried to hand over to Peter everything I know. My experience was invaluable, especially in these heavy and long matches.”

Earlier in the competition, China’s Zhao Shuai and Mao Jingdian also made their mark by winning the first-ever Paralympic mixed doubles title. Their 3-0 victory over fellow Chinese pair Peng Weinan and Xiong Guiyan in the Class 17 final represented more than just a gold medal – it was the dawn of a new era in Paralympic table tennis.

“We are very happy to win the gold medal,” said the champions. “Mixed doubles is also a new event in this Olympics. We support each other in this Olympics, especially emotionally. This gold medal also proves that our efforts are not in vain.”

Their path to gold included a dramatic semifinal comeback against Ukraine’s Viktor Didukh and Iryna Shunkarova, recovering from 2-0 down to win in a nail-biting fifth game. Poland’s Piotr Grudzien and Karolina Pek, along with the Ukrainian pair, shared the bronze medals.

The introduction of mixed doubles at Paris 2024 aligned perfectly with the ITTF’s mission to champion gender equality, diversity, and teamwork. While men’s and women’s doubles had returned after a 48-year absence, mixed doubles provided a completely fresh platform to showcase athletic partnership and skill.

This addition didn’t just expand the Paralympic programme – it redefined the Paralympic table tennis landscape, offering new opportunities for athletes to compete and excel together.

Despite his unparalleled success, Riapos’s true passion extended beyond personal accolades. “I am a sportsman, but my heart and soul are dedicated to developing opportunities for handicapped people in Slovakia,” he reflected. “These Games in Paris have been perfect. Now I see that the Paralympic movement is evolving from amateur to more professional.”

His words captured the essence of what made these achievements so meaningful – they weren’t just about individual glory, but about advancing the Paralympic movement and inspiring future generations.

Looking back one year later, 31 August 2024 stands as a day when Paralympic table tennis celebrated both its storied past and its bright future. Riapos’s historic achievement alongside a Paralympic debutant, combined with the inaugural mixed doubles champions, created a perfect snapshot of what makes Paralympic sport so special.

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[Tristan Lavier]

The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has launched a historic process to reform its Constitution, marking the first step in introducing fresh new ITTF Statutes for the next centenary of the sport.

This initiative is rooted in the mandate of the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM), the supreme governing body of the ITTF, where the Membership overwhelmingly approved a resolution, proposed by the ITTF Executive Board, for the Federation to undertake a comprehensive renewal of its Statutes. The resolution called for the ITTF to modernize its governance framework so that it reflects more accurately the evolution of table tennis, as well as the challenges and opportunities of the world we live in today and tomorrow.

The process will begin with the Constitution, the foundational document that governs the entire ITTF structure. The new Constitution will be shaped by the members and for the members of the global table tennis family. The reform will also be aligned with the celebrations of the ITTF Centenary in 2026, making this process both a unifying milestone and a forward-looking moment for the global table tennis community.

To guarantee full impartiality, ITTF Leadership has removed itself entirely from the reform. The process is fully entrusted to and coordinated by Dr. Andrés Constantin, ITTF newly appointed Governance Manager.

A Reform Built on Values​

The process is anchored in a set of guiding values:

• Transparency – Documents, timelines, and outcomes will be openly shared at every stage of the process.
• Inclusivity – Every Continental Federation, Member Association (MA), and official will have meaningful opportunities to contribute. This is not a top-down rewrite; it is a co-created Constitution in which every member has ownership.
• Independence – The process is safeguarded, entrusted fully to the ITTF Governance Manager for impartiality.
• Accountability – ITTF Family feedback will receive acknowledgment and a reasoned response, ensuring that input is not only collected but acted upon.
• Future-Readiness – Proposals will be measured against best practices and long-term sustainability, preparing the sport for its next century.

Starting with the Constitution is not only practical but also methodologically sound: it sets the stage for coherent and meaningful reform.

“Constitutional reform is not just about drafting a legal text, it is about trust, legitimacy, and shaping the future together,” said Dr. Andrés Constantin, ITTF Governance Manager. “By embedding participation at every step, we ensure the new ITTF Constitution truly belongs to the ITTF Family.”

A Participatory Process Designed For Meaningful Input​

The reform has been deliberately designed as one of the most participatory processes in ITTF history. Multiple and complementary channels will ensure that participation is not symbolic, but meaningful and impactful. These include:

• Regional Dialogues
  • Regional meetings under Chatham House Rules and with interpretation support
  • Summary reports of regional dialogues published, summarizing key proposals and divergent views.
• Direct Engagement
  • Anonymous Feedback Form for submission of official proposals (open to all MAs).
  • One-to-One Consultations for stakeholders seeking tailored guidance.
• Accessibility & Translation
  • Plain-language summaries, working translations, interpretation support, and accessible formats for all major documents.
• Transparency Mechanisms
  • Public Comment Log (tracking every submission, its source, and how it was addressed).
  • Summary reports after each phase.

“Participation is at the heart of this process,” said Dr. Constantin. “We are not just opening the door, we are actively building multiple pathways to ensure everyone, everywhere, can contribute meaningfully and see their voice reflected in the outcome.”

About The Process Lead​

Dr. Andrés Constantin is the ITTF Governance Manager. Born and raised in Argentina, Dr. Constantin is a lawyer trained at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella (Argentina) and holds both a Master of Laws and a Doctorate in Juridical Sciences from Georgetown University (USA).

He has collaborated and worked with the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, as well as provided legal and policy advice to governments in Asia, Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He has led high-impact initiatives, supported strategic litigation, and facilitated multi-stakeholder engagement across diverse sectors.

Dr. Constantin also serves as a Visiting Professor of Law at Universidad Torcuato Di Tella and has served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Georgetown University. His background across legal systems and cultural contexts informs his interdisciplinary approach to rule-based, transparent, and equitable governance.

“My responsibility is to steward a neutral, rigorous, and accessible process,” Dr. Constantin concluded. “We will meet stakeholders where they are—regionally, linguistically, and practically—and we will publish clear evidence of how their input shapes the text. Anchored in the AGM mandate and aligned with our Centenary, this is an extraordinary opportunity to renew the ITTF, together, and for the future of table tennis.”

About the ITTF Centenary​

Founded in 1926, the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) will soon celebrate its centenary, marking 100 years of shaping the global development of table tennis. From its first World Championships in London to becoming one of the world’s largest international federations with 227 Member Associations, the ITTF has guided the sport’s journey across a century. The Centenary will be highlighted by the ITTF World Championships Finals 2026 in London, returning to the birthplace of both the Federation and the World Championships, in a celebration of history, unity, and the sport’s bright future.

Get Involved by visiting the ITTF Centenary Constitutional Reform dedicated webpage here.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

The ITTF Americas Hopes Week & Challenge, which ran from 27 August to 1 September, marked a significant milestone in the 2025 Continental Hopes calendar. With the Americas programme concluded, the cycle moves toward completion ahead of the U11 Championships next week, which will determine the final Continental Hopes position before all regions converge in Sheffield.

The Central American nation embraced its role as host with characteristic enthusiasm, providing what organisers and participants described as exceptional conditions for the week-long programme. Jorge Chacón, President of the Guatemalan Table Tennis Federation, expressed his pride in welcoming the continent’s most promising young players.

“It is a true honour for Guatemala to host the ITTF Americas Hopes Week & Challenge,” Chacón said. “As president and a lifelong advocate for table tennis, I am genuinely thrilled to welcome the best young athletes from across the continent. In the Land of Eternal Spring, we welcome you with open arms.”

The Guatemalan Federation’s preparation and organisation received widespread praise from participants and coaching staff, with the event benefiting from strong support at both federation and governmental levels.

The programme featured international coaches providing participants with access to world-class coaching expertise. The coaching structure created collaborative learning environments where expertise flowed between international coaches and national team mentors, providing comprehensive development opportunities for all participants. Participants from across the Americas embraced the intensive training programme, with many highlighting the cultural exchange and learning opportunities as equally valuable as the technical instruction

The intensive training featured Head Coach Mamata Prabhu, providing participants with access to world-class coaching expertise. Prabhu’s leadership ensured that young players from across the Americas received training standards typically reserved for elite international competition.

ITTF Participation Officer Carlos Esnard praised the overall programme quality: “It has been an incredible experience, with players of great quality, excellent collaboration among the coaches, and an ITTF expert who worked with us in a spectacular way. In my opinion, this is one of the best camps we have had.”

The coaching structure created collaborative learning environments where expertise flowed between international coaches and national team mentors, providing comprehensive development opportunities for all participants

Ecuador’s Thayra Buitrón captured the programme’s spirit: “I had so much fun at this Hopes. I really enjoyed being with my teammates, meeting new people, and learning a lot.”

The diverse continental representation created rich learning environments where different playing styles and cultural approaches to table tennis merged. Mexico’s Andrea Campos noted: “This week at the Hopes has been very fun. I have learned many things and gained a lot from this experience.”

For participants like Honduras’s Jesús Tejada, returning after previous Americas and World Hopes experiences, the Guatemala experience provided continued development: “The experience has been very good, with a lot of high-level play. I have trained well, and I think I have performed well too.”

Head Coach Mamata Prabhu emphasised the multicultural learning environment: “This is a wonderful opportunity to be here, to see so many different cultures, to have different practice partners, to train with players from various nationalities, and finally to enjoy a lot of excitement and fun. I think it is a dream come true.”

Paraguay’s Coach Cielo Mutti observed the high standard of participants: “This has been an incredible experience, being able to see so many children from different countries with such a high level. I can see they are really making the most of the camp, and that makes me very happy.”

The programme created opportunities for coaching staff to share methodologies and approaches, contributing to broader development knowledge across the Americas region.

United States participant Jacob Kordus appreciated the training quality: “It’s a really nice camp, and I like playing against many high-level players.” This sentiment reflected the programme’s success in creating challenging training environments that pushed participants beyond their typical national-level experiences.

Colombia’s Jerónimo Jiménez highlighted the comprehensive development approach: “My experience at this Hopes Americas has been very rewarding. Meeting teammates from other countries allowed me to learn more, and the coaches supported me a lot in improving my table tennis techniques.”

The programme structure prioritised skill development and technical improvement, ensuring participants returned to their home countries with enhanced capabilities and broader understanding of international table tennis standards.

With Guatemala’s week concluded, attention shifts to Sheffield, where participants from continental programmes worldwide will converge for the World Hopes Week & Challenge. The final Continental Hopes position for the Americas will be determined at next week’s U11 Championships, completing the regional selection process.

Guatemala’s role as the final continental host has provided a fitting conclusion to a year of talent identification activities that have spanned continents and cultures, united by the common goal of nurturing the next generation of table tennis excellence.

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[Tristan Lavier]

On 1st September 2025, the ITTF Tribunal issued its operative decision dismissing the appeals filed by the Qatar Table Tennis Association (QTTA) and Mr. Khalil Al-Mohannadi, and confirming the outcome of the ITTF Presidential election of 27 May 2025, in which Ms. Petra Sörling was elected President.

Since the QTTA and Mr. Al-Mohannadi have issued a statement qualifying the ITTF Tribunal’s decision as a “procedural ruling” and suggested that only the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has “the authority and independence to conduct a comprehensive review” of the matter, the ITTF wishes to clarify the following:

As the grounds will show, the ITTF Tribunal’s decision is the result of an extensive legal process initiated when QTTA and Mr. Al-Mohannadi filed their appeals on 17 June 2025, seeking to annul the result of the AGM election and that Mr. Al-Mohannadi be declared President of the ITTF. Throughout the past months, the ITTF Tribunal Hearing Panel received extensive written submissions and supporting evidence from all parties. Among the evidence submitted was, at the request of QTTA and Mr. Al-Mohannadi, the official LUMI report on online voting, including the certified tally of votes.

The process culminated in a full hearing held on 28 August 2025, which lasted approximately five hours. At the outset of the hearing, all parties accepted the jurisdiction of the ITTF Tribunal and confirmed the independence of the three-member Hearing Panel appointed to adjudicate the case. The parties had full opportunity to examine and cross-examine Mr. Abdulla Al Mulla, Chair of the ITTF Nominations Committee, who was called as a witness on behalf of QTTA and Mr. Al-Mohannadi. The parties were then allowed to make oral submissions and, at the end of the hearing, confirmed that their rights to be heard were fully respected.

At the end of the hearing, at the request of the ITTF and as provided for in Article 8.35.3 of the ITTF Statutes, it was agreed that the ITTF Tribunal Hearing Panel would render its operative decision upon deliberation and issue the reasoned decision separately at a later stage.

The substantive section of the operative part of the decision reads as follows:

• The Appeal of Mr. Khalil Al-Mohannadi is dismissed.
• The Appeal of the Qatar Table Tennis Association is dismissed.
• The decision of the ITTF Annual General Meeting of 27 May 2025 electing Ms. Petra Sörling as ITTF President is confirmed.

According to Article 8.35.3 of the ITTF Statutes, this “decision is enforceable immediately upon communicating the operative part to the parties”. The outcome of the ITTF Presidential Election of 27 May 2025 stands confirmed.

The Decision of the ITTF Tribunal Hearing Panel can be appealed before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). As provided for by Article 8.37.4 of the ITTF Statutes, “nless ordered otherwise by CAS, the appealed decision remains in full force and effect pending the determination of the appeal”.

The full wording of the ITTF Tribunal decision is available here.

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[Nathiyaah Sakthimogan]

One year ago today, South Paris Arena 4 witnessed one of the most emotional and inspiring comebacks in Paralympic history. Norway’s Tommy Urhaug, competing in his seventh Paralympic Games, claimed the Class 5 Men’s Singles gold medal – his first Paralympic title in 12 years and the first singles gold medal awarded at Paris 2024. The victory was a testament to perseverance, family inspiration, and the enduring power of Paralympic dreams.

Urhaug’s path back to Paralympic glory had been long and winding. His last taste of Paralympic success came at London 2012, where he claimed gold in what was then his only Paralympic final appearance. Before that, he had secured bronze at Beijing 2008, establishing himself as one of the sport’s elite competitors. But the years that followed – Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 – had passed without that ultimate prize.

Now, at his seventh Paralympic Games, many wondered if the Norwegian’s time at the pinnacle had passed. Urhaug himself harboured doubts. “I didn’t quite believe that I could do it again,” he reflected afterwards. “But I know I’m a good player and I’ve beaten all these players before. So there was a small, small chance, but I didn’t actually believe it.”

Urhaug’s path to the final showcased the form that had once made him Paralympic champion. In the semifinals, he faced Turkey’s Ali Ozturk, the bronze medallist from Tokyo 2020. Urhaug delivered a masterclass performance, defeating Ozturk in straight sets 3-0 to secure his place in the gold medal match.

The final against Chinese Taipei’s Cheng Ming Chih proved to be the battle of wills that everyone had anticipated. The match went the full distance, with both players pushing each other to their absolute limits. Intense rallies and stunning shots captivated the audience as the momentum swung back and forth.

In the end, it was Urhaug’s experience and determination that proved decisive. His 3-2 victory (5-11, 11-7, 7-11, 11-7, 11-9) secured not just a gold medal, but validation of a career-long commitment to Paralympic excellence.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of Urhaug’s victory was the family story that accompanied it. His youngest daughter had been just one-and-a-half years old when he won in London 2012. She had missed Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, but was present in Paris to witness her father’s remarkable return to the top.

“She missed Rio and Tokyo, and now she’s back here and I won,” Urhaug said, his emotion evident. “She is my lucky charm, it’s something with her.”

The presence of his daughter transformed the victory from a personal achievement into a generational moment – a father showing his child that dreams can be realised, even after years of setbacks and disappointments.

Urhaug’s victory held additional significance as the first singles gold medal awarded at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. After days of doubles competition, his triumph marked the beginning of the individual competitions that would define the remainder of the Paralympic table tennis programme.

The Norwegian’s comeback story set the perfect tone for what would follow – reminding everyone that Paralympic competition rewards not just talent, but persistence, dedication, and the refusal to give up on dreams.

Looking back one year later, Tommy Urhaug’s gold medal represents something profound about Paralympic sport. At 37 years old, competing in his seventh Paralympic Games, he proved that age and experience can triumph over youth and expectation. His victory reminded everyone watching that Paralympic dreams don’t expire – they simply require patience, persistence, and sometimes a little bit of family magic.

“It’s an amazing feeling,” he had said, the gold medal around his neck and his daughter by his side. “It feels incredible to now have this gold medal around my neck.”

The post One Year Ago at Paris 2024: Tommy Urhaug’s Incredible 12-Year Journey Back to Paralympic Gold appeared first on International Table Tennis Federation.

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