On day two of the Europe Trophy Grand Final in Herceg Novi, Montenegro, the Women’s Team Event saw a few unexpected results as the group stage concluded, revealing all the quarterfinalists. In Group A, Serbia’s Josip Kolumbo, starting from third position, climbed to the top of the standings. With Maria DOLGIKH (Russia), Gaia MONFARDINI (Italy), and Reka BEZEG (Serbia), they stunned top seeds PANATHINAIKOS A.C. of Greece. The Greek team, composed of Ioanna GERASIMATOU, Aikaterini TOLIOU, and Konstantina PARIDI, entered the event as favourites in the absence of the reigning champions but suffered a crucial loss. Group B, the only group with four teams, was dominated by STK Aquaestil. The Croatian side, featuring Xue HAN VUKELJA, Leeloo VUKELJA, Elena VUKOVAC, Amy WANG (USA), and Sophia SHEREDEHA (Ukraine), won all three matches without dropping a single individual match. TTC MEERDAAL LEUVEN of Belgium secured second place with two narrow five-match victories and one loss. Their team included Kimberly T’HOOFT, Kathe MEYER, and Lotte NUYTTENS, who overcame ASVÖ TTC Olympic Wien (Austria) and MITTC (Malta). In Group C, Estonia’s TalTech Sports Club, led by Airi AVAMERI, with Reelica HANSON and Lithuania’s Marija MIKALAUSKYTE, recorded two victories to top the group. SU Sparkasse Kufstein A (Austria) finished second, with a team consisting of Danielle KELLY (Wales), Olha PONKO (Ukraine), and Anita NYITRAI (Hungary). The quarterfinal stage will continue later today in Herceg Novi.
Quarterfinal Line-Up Confirmed at Europe Trophy Grand Final Men in Herceg Novi
After the group stage of the Europe Trophy Grand Final in Herceg Novi, Montenegro, all quarterfinalists are now confirmed. In Group A, Serbia’s Železničar Niš produced the biggest surprise on the opening day by defeating the reigning champions Panathinaikos A.C. from Greece. The Serbian side, featuring Bulgaria’s Petyo KRASTEV and Vladimir PETKOV alongside Italy’s Francisco SANCHI, overcame Konstantinos ANGELAKIS, Konstantinos KONSTANTINOPOULOS, and Giorgos KONSTANTINOPOULOS, securing the top spot in the group with two wins. Despite the loss, the Greek team bounced back to defeat Belgium’s Logis Auderghem, clinching second place and a spot in the quarterfinals. In Group B, Austria’s UTTC Panaceo Stockerau dominated early, securing first place on day one. With a strong line-up including Egypt’s Khalid ASSAR, Julian RZIHAUŠCHEK, and David SERDAROGLU, they beat both GSTK Zagreb (Croatia) and TalTech Sports Club (Estonia). Zagreb, led by Leon BENKO, Ivan HENCL, Lovro ZOVKO, and Filip BOROVNJAK, finished second and also advanced. Group C saw an upset as Slovakia’s MSK Čadca topped the group against the odds. The trio of Mykhailo LOVHA (Ukraine), Damian LORO, and Jakub GOLDIR (Slovakia) defeated both ASD TT Santa Tecla Nulvi (Italy) and Baltais LA (Latvia). The Italian club, featuring Ebrahim GUBRAN (Yemen), Costantino CAPPUCCIO (Italy), and Petar LUBOMIROV VASSILEV (Bulgaria), secured the runner-up spot. In Group D, hosts STK Novi made the most of home advantage and topped their group to reach the quarterfinals. Their international line-up—Marko JEVTOVIĆ (Serbia), Tomislav PUCAR (Croatia), Enio MENDES (Spain), and Aleksandr KHANIN (Belarus)—secured two wins. Spanish club Tenis de Taula OLOT, with Rafael de las HERAS, Arnau PONS, Diogo PINHO (Portugal), and Damien Rolland PROVOST (France), finished second.
Europe Trophy Men’s Grand Final Set for a Fierce Battle in Igalo
The Europe Trophy Men’s Grand Final is ready to take centre stage in Igalo, Montenegro, from 4th to 6th April 2025, bringing together twelve clubs from across Europe who earned their place through intense regional battles. Hosted by STK Novi, the competition offers ambitious clubs from outside the Champions League and Europe Cup spotlight a chance to compete for continental glory. Group A: Panathinaikos Leads a Balanced Trio Panathinaikos A.C. (GRE) comes into the Grand Final with a deep and well-rounded roster featuring domestic stars Konstantinos KONSTANTINOPOULOS, Konstantinos ANGELAKIS, and Portuguese international João MONTEIRO. As one of Greece’s most historic clubs, Panathinaikos brings both legacy and ambition into their battle to defend the title . Logis Auderghem TT (BEL) presents the line-up that includes Lauric JEAN, Ludovic BIERNY, and Anthony MAECK, making them a strong dark horse in the group. Železničar Niš (SRB) rounds out Group A with a multinational squad including Francisco SANCHI and Ziver GÜNDÜZ, ready to challenge their higher-ranked opponents. Group B: Austria, Croatia, Estonia Collide Group B is headlined by UTTC Panaceo Stockerau (AUT), bringing firepower with players like Khalid ASSAR (EGY) and PARK Chan Hyeok (KOR), backed by local standouts David SERDAROGLU and Julian RZIHASCHEK. TalTech Sport Club (EST) brings variety, and international flair with Vallot VAINULA, Tomasz LEWANDOWSKI (POL), and young guns like Martinkus VALDAS (LTU). From Croatia, GSTK Zagreb comes in with national experience, including Leon BENKO and Lovro ZOVKO. Group C: Italy, Latvia, Slovakia Eye Knockouts Italian side ASD TT Santa Tecla Nulvi features a large, diverse line-up with players like Tomas KOLDAS (CZE), Costantino CAPPUCCIO, and Alexandros DIAKOUMAKOS. Baltais LA (LAT) mixes local talent Daniels KOGANS with international additions such as Arturs SPALIS, Daniel LINDSO (SWE), and Maksim VUHKA (EST), bringing flair and unpredictability. From Slovakia, MSK Čadca arrives with depth and cohesion. Anchored by Pavel PETRAS and Damian FLORO, the Slovak club has consistently performed in regional competition and aims to carry that form into Igalo. Group D: Hosts STK Novi Ready to Impress STK Novi (MNE), as hosts, will have home crowd energy behind them. Their line-up includes top names like Tomislav PUCAR (CRO), Marko JEVTOVIC (SRB), and Aleksandr KHANIN (BLR)—a combination of Balkan strength and international firepower. Club Tenis de Taula Olot (ESP) brings a competitive squad featuring Arnau PONS, Rafael de las HERAS, and Portuguese duo Diogo SILVA and Diogo PINHO, capable of mounting a serious challenge. Completing the group, ASD Marcozzi -A- (ITA) fields the talented Carlo ROSSI, Denis IVONIN (RUS), and Federico VALLINO, aiming to make a deep run in the tournament. Group Winner and Group Runner-Up will advance to Final Stage. Third team will continue competition in Position Matches 9-12 Stage. Stay tuned to ETTU.org for updates, results, and highlights as the action unfolds in Igalo.
Women’s Europe Trophy Grand Final: New Champion to Be Crowned in Igalo
With defending champions Dr. Časl not returning to defend their title, this year’s Women’s Europe Trophy Grand Final, set to be played in Igalo, Montenegro from 4th–6th April, promises a thrilling battle for continental glory among emerging European clubs. The event brings together the top regional qualifiers from across Europe, with teams split into three competitive groups. Group A: Panathinaikos Leads the Charge Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos A.C. enters the Grand Final as a favourite in Group A. With a deep and diverse squad featuring the likes of Aikaterini TOLIOU, Ana TOFANT, Matilda HANSSON, and Maria ARTSETOU, the Athens-based club blends international pedigree with domestic consistency. Looking to challenge them is UTTC Panaceo Stockerau (AUT), led by experienced internationals Karoline MISCHEK and Szandra PERGEL, alongside Anna FENYVESI and Renata STRBIKOVA—a team that could cause serious disruption in the knockout rounds. Completing the group is Josip Kolumbo (SRB), bringing a strong multinational line-up that includes Reka BEZEG, Malamatenia PAPADIMITRIOU, and Maria DOLGIKH, as well as the energy of Monika KNEZEVIC and Elitsa KRASIMIROVA. Group B: Balanced Power STK Aquaestil Duga Resa (CRO), last year’s semifinalists, top Group B with Xue HAN VUKELJA, Leeloo HAN VUKELJA, Sofiia SHEREDEHA, Elena VUKOVAC, and Amy Wang, and supported by Sofiia SHEREDEHA and Jana BISCAN, the Croatian side is a serious contender for the title. Belgium’s TTC Meerdaal Leuven offers a solid unit featuring Awa SOW, Kathe De MEYER, and Nele LIEVENS, while MITTC (MLT) brings one of the largest squads, led by Anthea CUTAJAR and Valeria SHCHERBATYKH. Rounding off the group is ASVÖ TTC Olympic Wien (AUT), the most international roster in the field, with Olena PENTIUK, Renata LACENOVA, and Anna KONDRATOVA among their 16 listed players. Group C: SU Sparkasse Kufstein Seeks Redemption After falling to Dr. Časl in last year’s semifinal, SU Sparkasse Kufstein (AUT) returns with unfinished business. With Anita NYITRAI, Györgyi BENE, and Danielle KELLY leading the way, and Olha PONKO and Arantxa COSSIO adding international flair, Kufstein is poised for another deep run. Estonian side TalTech Sport enters with a roster including Airi AVAMERI and Sirli JAANIMÄGI, aiming to gain valuable experience at this level while being more than capable of a surprise result. Italy’s ASD Tennistavolo Sassari brings a large, ambitious squad featuring Lisa BRESSAN, Fatima BELLO, and Francesca GANAU. With Dr. Časl’s absence, the door is wide open for a new name to be etched into the Women’s Europe Trophy. The competition format guarantees high-paced, engaging ties with teams needing to be sharp from the first point. Group Winner and Group Runner-Up will advance to Final Stage. Third and fourth positioned teams team will continue competition in Position Stay tuned throughout the weekend as ETTU brings you updates, results, and coverage from Igalo—where the next chapter of the Women’s Europe Trophy will be written.
Europe Trophy Grand Final Heads to Igalo for 2024–2025 Season Showdown
The picturesque coastal town of Igalo, Montenegro, is set to welcome top table tennis clubs from across Europe this weekend for the Europe Trophy Grand Final, from 4th to 6th April 2025. Organised by the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU) and hosted by the club STK Novi, the event will crown the champions of both the Men’s and Women’s Europe Trophy for the 2024–2025 season. The competition follows a regional group stage format, with qualifiers from each region earning their place at the Grand Final—offering an exciting and cost-effective European platform for clubs of all levels. Twelve men’s teams have secured their places in the final stage after advancing through the regional group phase. The field features clubs from across the continent, each eager to claim the title: With experienced clubs and emerging challengers in the mix, the men’s draw promises a high level of competition and unpredictable battles across the three days. Ten women’s teams will also compete for the Europe Trophy title in Igalo, representing nine different countries and showcasing the depth of talent in women’s club table tennis:
Join the Global Celebration: World Table Tennis Day 2025 Registration Open
World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) 2025 will be celebrated across the globe on April 23, and the European Table Tennis Union support this vibrant, inclusive initiative led by the ITTF Foundation. Under the inspiring theme “Diversity & Inclusion”, WTTD 2025 aims to reaffirm that table tennis is for everyone, everywhere. Whether through para table tennis, gender equality programs, cultural exchange, or intergenerational play, the focus is on using the universal language of table tennis to break barriers and unite communities. By registering, your event will be officially recognised and featured in the WTTD 2025 final report published by ITTF. ETTU encourages all clubs, associations, schools, and individuals across Europe to embrace the spirit of WTTD 2025. Your creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication can help make this year’s celebration truly unforgettable. Register here
Applications for the 2025 Edition of “My Gender. My Strength.”
The ITTF Sports Development launched the 2025 edition of the “My Gender. My Strength.” project, a Member Association Assistance initiative focused on Women’s Development in Table Tennis. This impactful program is designed to empower female coaches and promote gender equality in table tennis, helping to elevate their role from grassroots to leadership levels within the sport. Recognizing sport as a powerful platform for social change, the project aims to enhance and advance women’s participation in table tennis, by supporting ambitious and dedicated female coaches as they grow into influential leaders in their respective Member Associations and beyond. Project Objectives What the Project Offers Selected candidates will receive comprehensive support, including: Project Implementation – Three-Stage Approach Who Can Apply? Each Member Association may nominate one female coach who meets the following criteria: How to Apply Member Associations are invited to submit applications for one female coach via the official application form: Apply here The deadline for applications is today.
Saint-Denis 93 TT Edges CTM Mirandela in Five-Matches Thriller
French club Saint-Denis 93 TT secured a narrow 3-2 victory over Portugal’s CTM Mirandela in the opening leg of the Europe Cup Women Quarterfinal. Earlier this week, Universidad de Burgos – RM Terán defeated Hungary’s Budaörsi Sport Club 3-1. The tie in France was tightly contested, with the home side stretched as a team across all five matches. Jie LI opened strongly with a dominant win over Maria RUIVO, but Annamaria ERDÉLYI quickly leveled the score by defeating Agathe AVEZOU in straight games. Hsing Yin LIU restored the lead for Saint-Denis with a 3-1 win over Ines MATOS, before ERDÉLYI struck again—this time overcoming Jie LI—to make it 2-2. In the decisive fifth match, Agathe AVEZOU delivered a composed performance, beating Maria RUIVO in straight games to seal the win for the French side. “It was a difficult match, but we are happy to have won in the end! I’m proud to get the last win at 2-2,” said AVEZOU. “Now we have to win in the second leg!” Despite ERDÉLYI’s impressive double victory, CTM Mirandela fell just short of the upset. However, by taking the match to five matches, they reduced the pressure heading into the return leg on 27th April, which they will host on home soil. Saint-Denis 93 TT – CTM Mirandela 3-2
Austria: LIU Jia Elected New Vice President, Wolfgang GOTSCHKE Confirmed as President
“We need to form a good coalition – just like in the federal government,” said LIU Jia following her election as the new Vice President for Sport. The ÖTTV “Athlete of the Century” takes over the role from Stefan FEGERL. President Wolfgang GOTSCHKE was confirmed in office with a 21:17 vote against challenger Norbert DARABOS during the general assembly held in the Mirror Hall of the House of Sports in Vienna. The other vice presidents continuing their roles for the three-year term are Secretary General Mathias NEUWIRTH (Organization) and Finance Chief Conrad MILLER. “The early elections were meant to clarify the situation and give the newly elected board a chance to bridge divisions and work constructively for the future of the federation. We must come together, devote our full attention to the sport, and focus on solutions,” said GOTSCHKE after the vote.“We presented our program and ideas before the general assembly; now it’s time to put the processes into action – together. Everyone is invited and encouraged to participate. Our goal must be to become united again.”. GOTSCHKE, who has led the federation since summer 2021, concluded: “I hope we will be judged by facts and performance, and that we will be given the chance to work constructively for the benefit of our athletes and the sport.” FORMER European champion LIU Jia was elected Vice President for Sport with a 23:19 vote, narrowly defeating Stefan FEGERL. “I’m looking forward to the challenges. Just like in any coalition, we have to find compromises within the federation. The most important thing is that athletes feel well-supported by us, and that the issues of the past truly stay in the past,” said LIU Jia, visibly moved. Also confirmed in their roles as ÖTTV Vice Presidents were Mathias NEUWIRTH (Organization) and Conrad miller (Finance). Günther Renner from Linz will continue as Chair of the Bundesliga, and the Presidential Conference will be led by Helmut JÄGER (Burgenland), Andreas adlboller (Vorarlberg), and Eduard Herzog (Lower Austria).
HB Ostrov Dominates in Poland to Take the Lead in Europe Cup Men’s Quarterfinal
Polish side UKS Dojlidy Białystok failed to capitalize on home advantage in the opening leg of the Europe Cup Men’s quarterfinal, as HB Ostrov z.s. secured a 3-0 victory, putting themselves in a strong position ahead of the return leg on 27th April. Jiri VRABLIK opened the tie in superb style, defeating Japan’s Machi ASUKA in straight games. The most dramatic contest came in the second match, where Patryk CHOJNOWSKI pushed Pavel SIRUCEK to a deciding game, but it was the Czech player who eventually prevailed, extending Ostrov’s lead. To complete the clean sweep, Tomas TREGLER defeated Piotr MICHALSKI in four games, giving the Czech team a safe cushion going into the second leg. Earlier this week, SF SKK El Niño Praha also claimed an away victory against Slovakia’s STK Vyhne, while Real Club Cajasur Priego Tenis de Mesa (ESP) edged PostSV Mühlhausen 1951 e.V. (GER) 3-2 in a tightly contested quarterfinal clash. UKS Dojlidy Białystok – HB Ostrov z.s. 0-3
