Marcos FREITAS and Matilde PINTO claimed the national senior titles at the 2025–2026 Portuguese National Championships, held in Vila Nova de Gaia. For 19-year-old PINTO, this marks her first senior national title, completing an impressive progression after winning gold in almost all younger age categories. In the final, she defeated Júlia LEAL to secure the crown. FREITAS, one of Portugal’s most experienced players, added another national title to his career, reaffirming his status at the top of Portuguese table tennis. He overcame João GERALDO in the final in straight games. Portugal Men’s Singles Women’s Singles Men’s Doubles Women’s Doubles Mixed Doubles
ZIJADIĆ and CERIĆ crowned champions in Ilijaš
The Bosnia and Herzegovina National Individual Championships for seniors took place in Ilijaš, bringing together the country’s top players for two days of intense competition. After a series of closely contested matches, Benjamin ZIJADIĆ secured the men’s singles title, while Emina CERIĆ emerged victorious in the women’s event, confirming her strong form on the national stage. In the men’s competition, ZIJADIĆ finished ahead of Edin KONJIĆ, with Dario PEJIĆ and Kenan ZAHIROVIĆ sharing third place. In the women’s singles, CERIĆ topped the podium ahead of Harisa MEŠETOVIĆ, while Ana SLADOJE and Ajna ZLOTRG completed the medal positions. The doubles titles went to Emir MUJIČIĆ / Anes MUJIČIĆ in men’s doubles and Harisa MEŠETOVIĆ / Ana SLADOJE in women’s doubles, while the mixed doubles crown was claimed by Aron KANLIĆ and Harisa MEŠETOVIĆ. Bosnia and Herzegovina Men’s Singles Women’s Singles Men’s Doubles Women’s Doubles Mixed Doubles
Luxembourg National Championships ready the for exciting weekend in Bertrange
Luxembourg’s leading table tennis players will gather this weekend at the Centre Atert in Bertrange for the Foyer National Championships, where the 2026 national titles will be decided across men’s and women’s singles and doubles, as well as mixed doubles. Defending singles champions Sarah DE NUTTE (Diddeleng) and Eric GLOD (Wëntger) return with the aim of retaining their crowns. However, the competition promises to be wide open, with several strong contenders capable of challenging for both titles and podium places. In the women’s event, Sarah DE NUTTE enters as the main favourite, but Enisa SADIKOVIC (Diddeleng) will be eager to build on her recent progress and push the defending champion even further than last year. A strong group of challengers, including Carole HARTMANN (Iechternach), Jona SCHROEDER (Préizerdaul), Melisa SADIKOVIC (Diddeleng), Tessy DUMONT (Lënster) and Kinda MOSTAFA (Union), will also be targeting medal positions. The men’s competition is expected to deliver high-quality encounters, particularly in the later rounds. Among the leading contenders are former national champions Luka MLADENOVIC (Berbuerg), Maël VAN DESSEL (Hueschtert-F.) and Eric GLOD (Wëntger), alongside Aaron SAHR (Houwald). Other top-seeded players include Loris STEPHANY (Berbuerg), Tom SCHOLTES (Berbuerg), Arlindo DE SOUSA (Lénger) and Gene WANTZ (Recken). Attention will also be on emerging talents Pit SCHOLTES (Lenneng), Luca ELSEN (Lëntgen) and Foos FERBER (Préizerdaul), who will be looking to challenge the established names. In the doubles events, new champions are guaranteed as none of last year’s gold medal-winning pairs return in the same combinations. In men’s doubles, WANTZ / VAN DESSEL and GLOD / CIOCIU top the seeding list. In the women’s event, the leading pairs are GONDERINGER / DE NUTTE and SADIKOVIC / SADIKOVIC, while in mixed doubles the top seeds are DE NUTTE / MICHELY and SADIKOVIC / WANTZ. Competition begins on Saturday with the doubles events from 11:00, followed by mixed doubles at 13:15. The men’s singles start at 13:15, while the women’s singles begin at 16:20. The mixed doubles competition will be completed on the same day, with the final scheduled in the evening. Sunday will feature the decisive stages of the tournament, including quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals in all remaining events, culminating with the singles finals at 18:00. Matches will be played in a knockout format, with singles played best-of-seven games and doubles best-of-five. A live stream will be available on Sunday via the official federation platform, where fans can also follow results and updates throughout the competition.
KOLODZIEJCZYK Leads Open Title Race in Horn
Excitement is building ahead of the 96th Austrian National Championships, set to take place this weekend in Horn (Lower Austria). With defending champion Andreas LEVENKO withdrawing, the race for the men’s singles title is wide open. Top seed Maciej KOLODZIEJCZYK enters the tournament as the main favourite, aiming to claim his first national singles title. The 2024 European doubles bronze medallist is seeded in three events – singles, men’s doubles (with his brother Franci KOLODZIEJCZYK) and mixed doubles (with women’s top seed Karoline MISCHEK). However, strong competition awaits. LIU Zhenlong, runner-up last year, has shown excellent form in the Bundesliga, while Simon PFEFFER, Alexander CHEN, and Julian RZIHAUSCHEK are all serious contenders. One thing is certain a new champion will be crowned. In the women’s singles, the withdrawals of Sofia POLCANOVA and defending champion LIU Yuan have reshaped the draw. Karoline MISCHEK, runner-up last year, leads the field and is expected to face her club teammate Nina SKERBINZ in a potential final. Young talent Mariia LYTVYN, bronze medallist at the U15 European Championships, could challenge the favourites. She is also among the top contenders in women’s doubles alongside Julia DÜR, and will defend her mixed doubles title with Christoph SIMONER.
Future International Referees Trained in Havířov
Last weekend, Havířov (Czechia) hosted a two-day educational workshop for prospective international referees, organised within the ETTU Referee Mentoring Program and held in conjunction with the WTT Youth Contender. The workshop was led by experienced international referees Matej HAMRAN (Slovakia) and Petr BOHUMSKÝ (Czechia). The event brought together a group of experienced umpires and national referees aiming to take the next step toward the international level. Participants represented a diverse range of countries, including Austria, Kosovo, Ukraine, Tunisia, the Netherlands, Slovakia, and Czechia. The main objective was to strengthen their understanding of international refereeing standards and prepare them for future participation in the International Referee School. The programme combined essential theoretical knowledge with practical application. Key topics included tournament scheduling principles, order of play, and different approaches to umpire scheduling. Participants were also introduced to the structure and expectations of the International Referee School. Special emphasis was placed on decision-making in complex situations, including the correct application of rules related to misbehaviour, disqualification, and other challenging scenarios regularly faced at international events. A major highlight of the workshop was its direct connection to the WTT Youth Contender tournament. Participants actively engaged in draw procedures, working in groups on both ITTF and WTT competition formats, before presenting their solutions. The learning experience was further enriched through case studies based on recent referee conferences, followed by interactive discussions and Q&A sessions. Practical exercises also included an overnight umpire scheduling task, allowing participants to apply their knowledge under realistic conditions. On the second day, the focus shifted from the classroom to the field of play. Participants took part in Call Area duties and gained hands-on experience with racket control procedures. They also observed result management processes and the work of referees during live matches, offering valuable insight into the operational side of international competitions. The workshop provided an excellent platform for exchanging experiences, discussing best practices, and strengthening cooperation among match officials. The high level of engagement and enthusiasm of all participants contributed significantly to the overall success of the event. Participants also shared positive feedback: “I am working to raise the level of table tennis referees and umpires in Ukraine. Unfortunately, there is currently a lack of interest in certain areas, and I hope that the skills I gained here will help us follow the latest European standards. I can give only the highest praise, as I truly appreciate the professionalism of everyone involved,” said Oles DOPILKO (Ukraine) “The presenters were extremely competent and professional. Their depth of knowledge and the way they delivered the material were impressive and very helpful for everyone involved. I would also like to highlight the simulation of exam situations, which was particularly useful in preparing for real-life challenges,” noted Christian NOWAK (Austria) Education and continuous development remain essential for maintaining high standards in international table tennis. Workshops such as this play a key role in preparing the next generation of referees for the demands of top-level competition.
Women in Umpiring Webinar to Inspire and Connect
ETTU will host its second women-only webinar dedicated to umpiring on 19 April 2026 at 20:00 CET, bringing together experienced officials and emerging talents for an engaging and inspiring online session. The webinar will highlight the journeys of some of the most accomplished women umpires, who will share their personal experiences from the international stage, including the challenges they have faced, key moments in their careers, and lessons learned along the way. Their insights aim to inspire and guide the next generation of officials. In addition to these discussions, the session will include updates from the HMO, as well as practical advice on presentation and performance in the Field of Play, offering valuable tools for umpires at all levels. Designed to create a supportive environment, the initiative focuses on strengthening connections between generations, encouraging knowledge-sharing and mentorship, and empowering women in officiating within table tennis. The webinar is open to participants at all stages of their officiating journey and aims to combine experience, learning, and inspiration in one interactive session. If you are interested, fill out this Google Form.
Zwolle to Host 2026 Netherlands National Championships
The 2026 Netherlands National Championships will take place from 20 to 22 March at the Landstede Sportcentrum in Zwolle, bringing together the country’s top players to compete for national titles across all major events. The tournament will feature competitions in men’s and women’s singles, as well as doubles and mixed doubles, with the official draw scheduled to take place shortly before the start of the event. The full schedule and draw will be available via the Dutch Table Tennis Federation’s official channels. In the women’s singles, Britt EERLAND enters as the main favourite, aiming to add a second national title to the one she claimed in 2016. However, she will face strong competition from Shuohan MEN, who has already secured four national titles (2018, 2020, 2021, 2025), as well as Emine ERNST, champion in 2022 and 2023, and Tanja HELLE, all of whom are capable of challenging for the top spot. The men’s singles field promises a highly competitive battle, with several players in contention for the title. Among the leading names are defending champion Gabrielius CAMARA, who claimed his first national crown in 2025, alongside Milo de BOER, Kas van OOST, Barry BERBEN, Ivan KAHN, and Remi CHAMBET-WEIL, all expected to play key roles in the fight for gold. Last year’s champions included Shuohan MEN in the women’s singles and Gabrielius CAMARA in the men’s singles. In the doubles events, Shuohan MEN / Dobrila JORGUSESA secured the women’s doubles title, Barry BERBEN / Kas van OOST triumphed in the men’s doubles, while Tali COHEN / Barry BERBEN claimed victory in mixed doubles. With a strong lineup of established champions and emerging contenders, the 2026 Netherlands Championships in Zwolle promise three days of high-level competition and exciting matches.
ITTF Equipment Assistance Programme 2026 Opens for Applications
The ITTF has launched applications for the Equipment Assistance Programme 2026, continuing its long-standing initiative to support member associations, particularly in developing regions. Since its introduction in 1999, the programme has delivered over 1,000 tables to 112 member associations worldwide, helping to address one of the key barriers to growth – access to quality equipment. In 2025, the programme supported 18 associations across Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania, with additional deliveries ongoing. The initiative distributed 148 tables, 130 surrounds, 1,500 rackets and more than 20,000 balls, supporting grassroots development, school programmes, and national team activities. For 2026, all member associations are invited to apply. Applications will be assessed based on governance, development activity, and competition plans, with priority given to Category 3 and 4 associations. Selected associations will receive customised equipment packages tailored to their needs. The application deadline is 17 April 2026. As ITTF celebrates its centenary year, the programme remains a key tool in supporting the global growth of table tennis.
Plenty of Challengers Await Defending Champions at Finnish National Championships in Tampere
The Finnish National Individual Table Tennis Championships will take place on 21–22 March at the Vuores Sports Hall in Tampere, where national titles will be decided in five events: men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. In the men’s singles, top seed Alex NAUMI of Kosken Kaiku returns as defending champion, aiming to secure his third senior national title. However, the road to the title will be far from straightforward. Among the leading challengers are Aleksi RÄSÄNEN (PT Espoo) and Lassi LEHTOLA (MBF Helsinki), both representing the new generation of Finnish talent. Notably, all three players currently train and compete in Sweden. Experience will also play a key role, with Otto TENNILÄ (PT 75) once again expected to be among the medal contenders. Known internationally as part of the Pongfinity trio under the nickname “Sensei,” Tennilä traditionally performs strongly on home soil. A notable absence from this year’s championships is Benedek OLÁH, who has dominated Finnish table tennis in recent years. OLÁH will instead be competing in Major League Table Tennis in the United States. “It is a pity that Benedek could not make it this year. My goal is to defend last year’s double title. Hopefully, we will see a great tournament with plenty of high-quality matches,” said NAUMI. In the women’s singles, Marina DONNER enters as the clear favourite, having claimed the national title for the past five consecutive years. The Åland-based player, representing MBF, missed the start of the season due to a shoulder injury but has been steadily regaining form ahead of the championships. Her title defence is expected to be challenged by Maria GIRLEA (PT Jyväskylä) and Aleksandra TITIEVSKAJA (PT Espoo), while young talent Jaimielee ENRIQUEZ could also play a role. “It is great to be competing for the national title again. There are a few nerves already, but I am not putting unnecessary pressure on myself,” DONNER commented. The doubles events promise further excitement. The top-seeded pairs are Alex NAUMI / Aleksi RÄSÄNEN in the men’s doubles and Marina DONNER / Maria GIRLEA in the women’s doubles, while Lassi LEHTOLA / Maria GIRLEA lead the field in mixed doubles. Spectators will have free admission throughout the event. The finals, scheduled for Sunday at 15:00, will be streamed free of charge on ISTV and Ruutu+, with commentary provided by Mika Pyykkö and co-commentator Pasi Valasti. Text: Heikki KIISKINEN / FTTA Photos: Ildiko KADAR
Europe’s Rising Stars Gather in Izvorani for Eurotalents Development Camp II
The Eurotalents Development Camp II will take place from 13 to 19 May 2026 in Izvorani, Romania, bringing together some of Europe’s most promising young players as part of the ETTU Eurotalents Programme. Organised by the Romanian Table Tennis Federation in cooperation with ETTU, the camp will once again provide a high-performance environment aimed at supporting the development of Europe’s next generation of elite athletes. A strong group of selected players has already been confirmed. In the girls’ category, the camp will feature Adela BRHELOVA of Czechia, Lola URIA and Carmen GÓMEZ of Spain, Kamilla KADAR of Finland, Alyssia BATAILLE of France, Serena ROSSATI of Italy, Kaja TVOROGAL and Karina MILTO of Lithuania, Andreea PROHOROVICI of Moldova, Zoë SCHUTTE of the Netherlands, Lara MONTEIRO of Portugal, Bianca TOMA, Adriana IVAN, Teodora SARDENI of Romania, and Aybige Fedride USTUNDAG of Turkey. In the boys’ category, confirmed participants include Richard FEBER of Czechia, Dimitar DIMITROV of England, Luca ROMERO and Ladimir MAYOROV of Spain, Arthur XIAN XIAO and Hachim TISSAFI IDRISSI of France, Kirill MANALAKI and Junde ZANG of Germany, Theofanis MARKOULAKIS of Greece, Reah Krol SHAHAR of Israel, Giorgio BORGHESE and Pietro CAMPAGNA of Italy, Nicolae BUCUR of Moldova, Milan VUCETIC of Montenegro, Vladimir FILIMON ROMANESCU of Romania, and Filip AROSELL of Sweden. The camp will begin on 13 May with arrival and a meeting for coaches, followed by five days of intensive training (14–18 May), before concluding with departures on 19 May. Training sessions will be led by an experienced coaching team headed by ETTU-appointed Head Coach Zvonimir KORENIC, alongside Bogdan ALBESCU, Gyorgy ISTVAN, and physical coach Andrei GHERASE, ensuring a comprehensive programme covering technical, tactical and physical preparation. The event will be hosted at the Romanian Olympic Centre “Sydney 2000” in Izvorani, a fully equipped high-performance venue near Bucharest, offering top-level training facilities as well as accommodation, dining, and recovery services in one location. The camp is open to the selected players listed above, while Member Associations may request wild cards for additional participants until 17 April 2026. Requests should be submitted via email to projects@ettu.org within the deadline. Associations are also reminded of the key administrative deadlines, with entries to be submitted by 17 April 2026 and cancellations possible until 27 April 2026.
