Following the successful inaugural Under 13 event in Podgorica last year the European Table Tennis Union is eagerly anticipating the start of the 2023 European Under 13 Championships. The tournament is scheduled to take place from Wednesday June 14th to Sunday June 18th 2023. Organized by the Croatian Table Tennis Association the Championships will be held at the Dom Sportova Zagreb in Hall 2 and Hall 3. The tournament will feature Mixed Teams U-13 Boys Singles U-13 Girls Singles and U-13 Mixed Doubles events. In the Mixed Teams event the top eight seeded teams are Italy Czechia Poland Germany France Ukraine Turkiye and Romania. The Boys Singles category will see intense competition among 83 players from 33 countries. The top two players from June’s European Rankings Danilo FASO and Francesco TREVISAN from Italy lead the list. Following closely behind are Kacper PIWOWAR from England ranked fourth in Europe and his teammate Abraham SELLADO who holds the fifth position. In the Under 13 Girls Singles the host nation Croatia boasts a representative from the top of the latest rankings. Lana BENKO Europe’s number one player in June leads the list of 77 talented players who will compete in Croatia’s capital city Zagreb. Joining her on the courts will be Hanka KODETOVA from Czechia Nil BASARAN from Turkiye and Diana KOLIENNIKOVA from Ukraine who hold the second and third positions respectively in the rankings. Players come from 30 countries. Â
Sporting CP Secures 15th Trophy in Club History
After an intense final series in the Portugal League play-off Sporting CP emerged victorious over CTM Mirandela clinching their 15th title in the club’s history. The defending champions handed over the trophy to the new winners. In the opening match Sporting CP defeated Mirandela by a close score of 3-2. However Mirandela quickly leveled the score setting the stage for a decisive clash. Once again Sporting CP found themselves pushed to the limit but ultimately came out on top. The pivotal moment in the quest for the title came during the opening duel. In the fifth and final game of the fifth match Galia DVORAK of Sporting CP triumphed over Annamaria ERDELYI of Mirandela sealing the victory with a score of 15-13. “I believe that the moment that truly made the difference was the first match when we won 3-2 and sealed it with a 15-13 victory in the deciding game. The level of both teams was incredibly even and winning two matches in a row seemed unlikely for either side. Despite our loss in the second encounter we remained positive and knew that if we capitalized on our chances we could secure the title… and we did ” expressed Galia DVORAK. She further added “I am incredibly satisfied because I wasn’t sure if I could still perform at this level but I proved that I could! We have faced each other many times in the past so we both understand the intensity of this battle.” Sporting CP’s triumph in securing their 15th trophy highlights their dominance in Portuguese table tennis. The team’s resilience and determination throughout the final series ultimately paid off solidifying their place in the club’s rich history.  Third match CTM Mirandela – Sporting CP 2-3 Annamaria ERDELYI Matilde PINTO – Anna HURSEY Galia DVORAK 3-2 (9-11 12-10 14-16 11-2 11-6) Inês MATOS – Anna HURSEY 0-3 (9-11m 6-11 10-12) Annamaria ERDELYI – Galia DVORAK 0-3 (9-11 7-11 8-11) Matilde PINTO – PatrÃcia SANTOS 3-1 (11-9 11-5 8-11 11-7) Inês MATOS – Galia DVORAK 0-3 (10-12 10-12 5-11) Second match CTM Mirandela –Sporting CP 3-2 Local: Pavilhão Reginorde MIrandela Annamaria ERDELYI Matilde Pinto – Anna HURSEY Galia DVORAK 3-1 (11-5 11-9 7-11 11-9) Inês MATOS – Galia DVORAK 1-3 (11-4 5-11 12-14 10-12) Annamaria ERDELYI – PatrÃcia SANTOS 3-0 (11-3 11-3 11-5) Matilde PINTO – Anna HURSEY 0-3 (7-11 8-11 8-11) Inês MATOS – PatrÃcia SANTOS 3-2 (5-11 11-7 11-8 8-11 11-8) First match Sporting CP – CTM Mirndela 3-2 PatrÃcia SANTOS Anna HURSEY – Inês MATOS Matilde PINTO 3-0 (11-5 12-10 11-6) Galia DVORAK – Inês MATOS 1-3 (8-11 8-11 12-10 11-13) PatrÃcia SANTOS – Annamaria ERDELYI 1-3 (18-16 9-11 12-14 9-11) Anna HURSEY – Matilde PINTO 3-0 (11-6 11-8 11-5) Galia DVORAK – Annamaria ERDELYI 3-2 (11-5 14-12 6-11 9-11 15-13)
Technical Information for National Associations at the 2023 European Games
The 2023 European Games featuring table tennis competitions will take place at the Hutnik Arena in Krakow. Here is the technical information that National Associations need to know: Venue: Hutnik Arena in Krakow Number of Competition Tables: 4 Number of Men’s Teams: 12 Number of Women’s Teams: 12 Team Matches: Each team shall consist of 3 players with each player participating in a maximum of 2 individual matches. Order of Matches: M1: Doubles (BC vs. YZ) M2: Singles (A vs. X) M3: Singles (C vs. Z) M4: Singles (A vs. Y) M5: Singles (B vs. X) In the next team match the fourth player can replace one of the three players from the previous match. Seeding List: According to World Rankings as of June 2023 Competition format: Direct Knockout Match for third place will be played. Mixed Doubles: Number of Mixed Doubles: 16 pairs Seeding List: According to Mixed Doubles Pairs Ranking. If a pair has no ranking the individual XD ranking points of both players will be added. Competition format: Direct Knockout Match for third place will be played. The winner of the XD event will qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Draw: Draw Schedule (all 5 draws): 22.06.2023 at 10:00 Location of the Draw: Athletes Village The playing schedule draws and results will be visible on the following link: https://www.european-games.org/sports/table-tennis/ Please note that results will not be displayed on the ETTU website. Practice Hall: Tent Hall located just outside of the Main Hall Number of practice tables: 12 Equipment: Table: Tibhar Showcourt 28 Blue Balls: Tibhar 40+ *** SYN TT NG (white) Net: Tibhar Smash Floor: Tibhar Grip Europe Black  Singles: Number of players in Men’s Singles: 49 Number of players in Women’s Singles: 51 Seeding List: According to World Rankings as of Week 25/20.06.2023. Competition format: Direct Knockout Match for third place will be played. Top 16 seeded players will start playing in Round 3.
Kosovo welcomes the table tennis players at Prishtina Open 2023
The organizing committee of the Prishtina Open 2023 announced the upcoming tournament scheduled to take place in Prishtina Kosovo on the 17th and 18th of June 2023. This event will bring together more than 170 table tennis enthusiasts from near and far showcasing the skill and talent of players in a thrilling competition. Prishtina Open 2023 promises to be an exceptional tournament attracting participants from various countries making it a truly international gathering of table tennis aficionados. The tournament will serve as a platform to foster friendly competition promote cultural exchange and celebrate the sport of table tennis. The vibrant city of Prishtina has been chosen as the ideal host for this prestigious event known for its warm hospitality and enthusiasm for sports. The tournament will be held at the Palace of Youth and Sports providing an excellent environment for players and spectators alike. Throughout the two-day event spectators can expect to witness breathtaking matches filled with intense rallies strategic maneuvers and displays of remarkable athleticism. The tournament will feature players from more than 10 different countries showcasing their exceptional skills and battling it out for the championship title. To all passionate table tennis fans and sports enthusiasts mark your calendars for the Prishtina Open 2023 and join it in Prishtina Kosovo on the 17th and 18th of June 2023. Witness firsthand the excitement and intensity of this prestigious tournament as players from diverse backgrounds showcase their skills on the grand stage. For further updates live scores and exclusive content join the conversation using the hashtag #POTTIT2023.
Tender Opens for Host of Inaugural Europe Para U23 Challenge
We are delighted to announce the commencement of the tender process to find a host for the first-ever Europe Para U23 Challenge. This prestigious event aims to foster the participation of young athletes with disabilities in international competitions. Spanning five days the tournament will include three days of training camp and player classification followed by two days of intense competition. We are targeting a timeframe at the end of November or December 2023 for the event. We kindly request all interested member associations to express their interest in hosting the event by Friday June 30. While not mandatory at this stage providing application details such as the prospective host city venue capacity accommodation options and pricing would be highly appreciated. To participate please submit your expression of interest to the ETTU Secretariat via email at galia.dvorak@ettu.org and pierre.kass@ettu.org no later than Friday June 30. If you have any inquiries or require further information please feel free to reach out to us. The Europe Para U23 Challenge is a remarkable opportunity to promote inclusivity and empower young athletes with disabilities. We eagerly anticipate receiving your submissions and finding a deserving host for this groundbreaking event. Together let us create a platform for these talented athletes to shine on the international stage. Â
Felix WETZEL and YANG Xiaoxin Clinch Gold in Malta
The Games of the Small States of Europe crowned new champions in the Men’s and Women’s Singles Events with Malta’s Felix WETZEL and Monaco’s YANG Xiaoxin emerging victorious. In the Men’s Singles final Felix WETZEL defeated Eric GLOD of Luxembourg with a score of 3-0. Prior to the final WETZEL had defeated Filip RADOVIC of Montenegro while GLOD prevailed against his teammate Luka MLADENOVIC. In the Women’s Singles competition YANG caused disappointment for the home nation supporters by defeating Malta’s Camellia IACOB in the final. Earlier in the semifinals YANG had also overcome Renata STRBIKOVA another representative from Malta. IACOB on the other hand had defeated Ariel BARBOSA of Luxembourg. Moving to the doubles events in the Men’s Doubles final MLADENOVIC and GLOD defeated WETZEL and PROKOPCOV securing the gold medal. Meanwhile in the Women’s Doubles IACOB and STRBIKOVA overcame the pair of BARBOSA and GONDERINGER from Luxembourg to clinch the gold medal. Â
ZHANG Yining and YAN Sen on duty as coaches at Eurotalents Development camp
Eurotalents Development camp for Under 17 and Under 15 category players is set to take place from August 23rd to 30th 2023 in Luxembourg. The prestigious event is organized by China Table Tennis College Europe (CTTC-E) and Luxembourg Table Tennis Association (FLTT) in collaboration with ETTU Eurotalents Programme China Table Tennis College (CTTC) and Chinese Table Tennis Association (CTTA). Associations have the opportunity to nominate a total of four players consisting of two Under 15 category players and two Under 17 category players. Due to the limited spots available registrations will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis. In the event that there are unfilled spots ETTU in cooperation with the organizer FLTT may assign them to participants. The camp will feature an exceptional lineup of coaches including ZHANG Yining from China who is renowned as one of the most successful female table tennis players in history. With victories in the World Cup World Championships and Olympic Games ZHANG Yining brings a wealth of expertise to the coaching staff. Joining her will be YAN Sen an Olympic and World Champion in doubles also from China and representing CTTC/CTTA. Other notable coaches present during the camp will be Heinz THEWS serving as the General Coordinator and representing the organizer (Luxembourg) Peter ENGEL as the Head Coach (Luxembourg) CHENG Xia as the Assistant Coach (Luxembourg) and ZHENG Chaoying as the Expert in table tennis physical training from CTTC/CTTA (China). The National Sports Institute of Luxembourg (I.N.S.) located in Cents-part of Luxembourg City will serve as the venue for the camp. The comprehensive facilities at the institute include a gymnasium equipped with 20 tables a fitness center conference rooms a restaurant two football fields and a hotel. To enhance the training experience high-level training partners from CTTC/CTTA belonging to the same age group as the participants will also be present at the camp.
Petra SÖRLING elected as a ASOIF Council Member
ETTU congratulates ITTF President Petra SÖRLING on her election as a Council Member of the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF). This historic moment occurred on Wednesday May 31st during the 47th General Assembly of ASOIF held in Lausanne Switzerland. Petra SÖRLING’s election as an ASOIF Council Member marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first ITTF President in the forty-year history of ASOIF to join its governing body. The ITTF was well-represented at the assembly with President SÖRLING leading the delegation alongside Executive Vice-President in charge of Governance Wahid OSHODI and Secretary General Raul CALIN. The General Assembly which coincided with ASOIF’s 40th anniversary commenced with a speech by Thomas BACH the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Bach applauded ASOIF for its remarkable achievements and contributions to the Olympic Movement over the past four decades. During the General Assembly Petra SÖRLING’S election as an ASOIF Council Member stood out as a notable achievement. Alongside her Ingmar De VOS President of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) and IOC Member and Morinari WATANABE President of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) and also an IOC Member were elected to the other two available seats on the ASOIF Council. Francesco Ricci Bitti President of ASOIF emphasized the complexity of the global political situation and the preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. He underscored the importance of preventing government interference and safeguarding the self-determination of International Federations.
The Draw for the Final Stage of the European Teams Championships
The Final Stage of the European Teams Championships in Malmo took a step closer today as the highly anticipated Draw was conducted at the renowned Turning Torso Malmo. The event was graced by the presence of esteemed European and Swedish table tennis stars Truls MOREGARDH and Linda BERGSTROM. The draw was also attended by Acting Deputy President Heike AHLERT Competition Manager Alen IVANCIN Ranking Committee chair Igor HELLER and Referee Swen WEILAND.Located in the tallest building in Sweden the Draw determined the groupings for the Men’s and Women’s Teams Events with a total of 24 teams participating. The teams were divided into eight groups for each category. In the Men’s Event the top eight teams in the Draw included Germany Sweden France Portugal Croatia Slovenia England and Belgium. In the Women’s Event the leading teams in their respective groups are Germany Romania France Portugal Slovakia Hungary Luxembourg and Sweden. With the Draw completed the stage is set for an exhilarating competition at the European Teams Championships in Malmo.
Malta Secures Gold in Men’s and Women’s Events at GSS 2023
Malta emerged triumphant in the table tennis events at the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) as they clinched gold in both the Men’s and Women’s Team Events held at the University Sports Hall in Tal Qroqq Msida. The host nation celebrated a remarkable double success showcasing their table tennis prowess to the delight of the local spectators. In the Men’s Team Event Malta’s lineup consisting of Daniel BAJADA Gabriel GRIXTI Dimitrij PROKOPCOV and Felix WETZEL demonstrated their skill and determination securing the top position on the medal podium. They faced a tough challenge from Team Luxembourg comprising Eric GLOD Luka MLADENOVIC Eric THILLEN and XIA Cheng in a thrilling final that went the distance. Malta emerged victorious with a hard-fought 3-2 win claiming the gold medal. The bronze medals in the Men’s Team Event were awarded to Cyprus and San Marino. In the Women’s Team Event Malta’s team consisting of Anthea CUTAJAR Camella IACOB Viktoria LUCENKOVA and Renata STRBIKOVA showcased their exceptional talent and teamwork. They engaged in an enthralling battle against Monaco’s Sannah LAGSIR Anne Ulrika QVIST and YANG Xiaoxin emerging as the victors in another closely contested match. The bronze medals in the Women’s Team Event were awarded to Luxembourg and Cyprus. During the event Miguel VICENS Vice-President of the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU) presented the pennant to Johanna GRECH Youth Director for the Maltese Olympic Committee in recognition of their successful hosting of the tournament. Andreas GEORGIOU General Secretary of the Cyprus National Olympic Committee (NOC) and Stefano VALENTINO President of San Marino were also present to commemorate the occasion. Men’s Teams Event Final Malta vs. Luxembourg 3-2 Semi final Luxembourg vs. Cyprus 3-1 Malta vs. San Marino 3-0 Group A Cyprus vs. Iceland 3 – 0 San Marino vs. Monaco 3 – 1 Cyprus vs. Monaco 3 – 0 San Marino vs. Iceland 3 – 0 Cyprus vs. San Marino 3-0 Monaco vs. Iceland 3-0 Group B Luxembourg vs. Andorra 3 – 0 Malta vs. Montenegro 3 – 1 Luxembourg vs. Montenegro 3 – 1 Malta vs. Andorra 3 – 0 Malta vs. Luxembourg 3-0 Montenegro vs. Andorra 3-0 Women’s Teams Event Final Malta vs. Monaco 3-2 Semifinal Monaco vs. Luxembourg 3-1 Malta vs. Cyprus 3-0 Group A Luxembourg vs. Iceland 3 – 0 Cyprus vs. Iceland 3 – 0 Luxembourg vs. Cyprus 3 – 0 Group B Malta vs. Monaco 3 – 2 Malta vs. Montenegro 3 – 0 Monaco vs. Montenegro 3 – 0 You can see the pictures from the event here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ettu_official/albums/72177720308710586
