The international Finlandia Open table tennis tournament concluded over the weekend at the Kisakallio Sports Institute in Lohja, Finland. In the Men’s Singles, Dutch player Milo de BOER emerged victorious, defeating the Czech Republic’s Vlastimil BUBEN in a thrilling seven-game final with a scoreline of 4–3 (8–11, 11–5, 12–10, 11–8, 8–11, 7–11, 11–6). Norway’s Alexander FRANSSON secured the bronze medal. “This was a great tournament. I enjoyed playing a lot and cherished every moment. My matches improved progressively. The beginning was tough, but on the final day, I played at my best level. The season continues in January with the European Championship qualifiers and my national league,” de BOER reflected. In the Women’s Singles, France’s Jeanne ROBBES claimed the title, defeating Luxembourg’s Enisa SADOKOVIC 4–1 (11–7, 11–8, 7–11, 11–5, 11–6) in the final. Norway’s Christine KALVATN took the bronze medal. “It feels amazing to win a tournament like this. I will definitely return next year. The rest of the season will involve France’s Pro B league and perhaps a WTT Feeder tournament,” Robbes shared after her victory. The tournament, sanctioned by the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU), featured 158 players from 27 different associations, showcasing high-level competition across the board. Videos https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17mEcp7Gmr/ Text: Heikki Kiiskinen / FTTA Photos: Hannu Tolvanen
Finlandia Open 2024 – U21 Titles Clinched by VAN DESSEL and Jeanne ROBBES
The first champions of the 2024 Finlandia Open table tennis tournament were crowned on Friday evening. In the U21 Men’s category, Mael VAN DESSEL of Luxembourg triumphed over Norway’s Alexander FRANSSEN in an intense final, securing a 3-1 victory (12-10, 9-11, 11-7, 11-6). The bronze medals were awarded to Matyas LEBEDA from the Czech Republic and Dominykas SAMUOLIS from Denmark. In the U21 Women’s final, France’s Jeanne ROBBES claimed the title, defeating Switzerland’s Fanny DOUTAZ 3-1 (11-6, 11-7, 9-11, 11-4). The third-place honors went to Martine TOFTAKER of Norway and Eugenia SASTRE of Spain. The tournament will continue through the weekend, with the winners of the Men’s and Women’s Singles events set to be decided on Sunday. The ETTU-sanctioned competition, held at the Kisakallio Sports Institute, boasts participation from over 160 players representing 27 countries. Info: Info: https://www.sptl.fi/sptl_uudet/?p=52414 Text: Heikki Kiiskinen / FTTA Photos: Hannu Tolvanen
Moldova Hosts Successful Seminar on Training Young Table Tennis Talents
As part of the European Table Tennis Union’s (ETTU) National Association Assistance Program (NAAP), a practical-methodical seminar titled “The Process of Training Young Players – The Road to the Olympics” took place in November in Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. The seminar, hosted at Chisinau Sports University, witnessed an impressive turnout of 74 participants, underscoring the growing interest in table tennis development in Moldova. The event was further elevated by the attendance of notable figures such as Mr. Viorel DORGAN, Director of the Institute of Physical Education, and Mrs. Maria TIMUS, principal specialist from the Youth, Sport, and Physical Education Policy Division under the Ministry of Education and Research. ETTU Vice President Jaroslaw KOLODZIEJCZYK expressed his delight at the overwhelming participation and the warm reception in Chisinau. Reflecting on the experience, he said: “The National Assistance Program has raised great interest in Moldova. Honestly, I had not expected the participation of no less than 74 people, who gathered for many hours in a very beautiful aula of Chisinau Sports University. The presence of Mr. Viorel DORGAN and Mrs. Maria TIMUS underlined the importance of this program for the country. ETTU Vice President KOLODZIEJCZYK underlined the warm hospitality. “Besides a serious and scientific content of the agenda, I was overwhelmed by the kindness and hospitality provided, particularly by the president of Moldova TTA, Mr. Ion SARANDI, and Mrs. Elena MOCROUSOV, General Secretary of MDA TTA. From my side, I just hope the participants have benefited from our meeting and I wish them all the best for the future.”
2025 Champions League Final 4 Saarbrücken: Book the tickets now
This year, 4,500 spectators in Saarlandhalle Saarbrücken contributed to the resounding success of the first-ever Champions League Final 4. The event returns next year, promising another thrilling experience for players and fans alike. Mark your calendars for May 31 and June 1, 2025. Tickets are now available here https://fcs-tt-tickets.reservix.de/events Combined tickets for both days can be purchased starting today and throughout December. From January, tickets for individual days will also go on sale—don’t miss out on securing your spot early. “We did a good job this year in organizing the event. The sporting results were also very satisfying for us. Winning the title at home in our venue was a great moment. We’re also highly motivated for 2025,” said 1. FC Saarbrücken TT e.V. team Manager Nicolas BARROIS. Last year’s Champions League Final 4 winners, 1. FC Saarbrücken TT e.V, are now preparing for their first duel of the new season. In the Round of 16, the German club will face HB Ostrov z.s. of Czechia. “This year, the Champions League has fantastic lineups, such as Postsportverein Mühlhausen 1951 eV with Chinese players and Alliance Nîmes Montpellier TT with the LEBRUN brothers. There was no easy draw. If we make it to the quarterfinals, we could face GV Hennebont TT, which has an amazing team and great players. However, it’s too early to think about that since the team from Ostrava has very strong players,” added BARRIOS. Regarding the team’s current form, BARROIS commented: “We are not in a good period right now. We’ve had a few disappointing results, which put us in seventh position in the Bundesliga standings. This is just temporary, and I hope we will be fully ready for the challenges of the new Champions League season, where our goal is to defend our title.”
33rd Finlandia Open – Everything You Need to Know
The traditional Finlandia Open returns this year, welcoming over 160 players from 27 countries to the enchanting home of Father Christmas. Hosted at the Kisakallio Sports Institute, just an hour’s drive from Helsinki Airport, the venue offers world-class facilities for this highly anticipated international event. Schedule and Format The Men’s Singles Trophy is steeped in history, bearing the names of iconic table tennis stars such as Liu Guoliang, Jan-Ove Waldner, and Mattias Falck. Unique Format The tournament employs a progressive knock-out system, ensuring each player competes in approximately six singles matches, with their final positions determined by the results. Matches will be played in a best-of-five format. Recognized by the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU), the competition carries ETTU ranking status, further adding to its prestige. Stay Updated Follow the latest updates and results here: Finlandia Open 2024.
ETTU Announces Key Updates and Initiatives
The European Table Tennis Union (ETTU) has unveiled significant updates following decisions made at the 2024 Congress. From ranking system changes to new hosting opportunities and support for female coaches, these updates mark a pivotal step for the development of European table tennis. Key highlights include the launch of a new ETTU Handbook, the introduction of the ETTU Ranking for seeding in 2025 events, and announcements on the 2025 World Table Tennis Championships European Quotas and the tender for the 2026 European Championships. Additionally. NEW ETTU HANDBOOK Following the 2024 Congress decisions, ETTU’s updated constitution and regulations are available separately but also in handbook version here: ETTU RANKING At the 2024 ETTU Congress, it was approved to use the ETTU Ranking for seeding in all ETTU team and individual competitions, excluding club competitions. This change will be implemented starting with events in 2025 and will take effect immediately. 2025 WORLD TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS EUROPEAN QUOTAS The top 16 Singles and top 8 Doubles finishers from the 2024 European Championships will qualify directly for the 2025 World Table Tennis Championships, with the remaining European quota positions filled based on ITTF rankings. 2026 EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS ETTU announces that there will be no 2026 edition of the Multisports European Championships. As a result, the tender process for hosting the 2026 European Championships (Individual Events) is now officially open. The application form, along with the Championship’s directives and regulations, has been sent to all Member Associations. Completed applications must be submitted no later than 20th December 2024. ETTU RANKING INCLUSION ETTU invites members’ associations to apply their tournaments to be part of the ETTU Ranking Platform. The essential requirements that a tournament can be part of the ranking platform are: Entry System can be done only through the Member Associations. The minimum number of participating Associations is 5. The application form for inclusion in the ETTU Ranking Platform has been sent to all Member Associations. EUROPE YOUTH SERIES SUPPORT ETTU will continue supporting the participation of one female coach per Member Association in 2025, covering full hospitality costs for coaches from ITTF categories 3 and 4 and 50% of hospitality costs for coaches from categories 1 and 2. This support aims to further promote female coach participation.
ETTU JOB OPENINGS: PART-TIME FINANCIAL MANAGER (20H/WEEK)
Location: Luxembourg Position Overview: ETTU is looking for a skilled Financial Operations Manager to handle daily financial tasks, including accountancy, budget management, and liaising with auditors. Based in Luxembourg, this part-time position offers flexible working arrangements. Job Responsibilities: Required Skills and Qualifications: What We Offer: Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a CV and cover letter, to Galia Dvorak galia.dvorak@ettu.org and Pierre Kass pierre.kass@ettu.org no later than 31st December 2024.
ETTU JOB OPENINGS: MARKETING ASSISTANT (30H/WEEK)
Location: Remote + travel and work on-site at various events. Position Overview: ETTU is looking for a Marketing Assistant to ensure that all marketing activities, particularly at events, are implemented correctly and in line with established plans and guidelines. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple operational tasks, making it essential for maintaining the smooth day-to-day running of marketing and event- related activities. Key Responsibilities: Event Marketing: Administrative Support: Qualifications: Preferred Skills: What We Offer: Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a CV and cover letter, to Galia Dvorak galia.dvorak@ettu.org and Pierre Kass pierre.kass@ettu.org no later than 31st December 2024.
ETTU JOB OPENINGS: DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER (FULL-TIME)
Location: Remote + travel and work on-site at various events Position Overview: ETTU is seeking a Digital Media and OTT Content Manager to develop and implement the digital content strategy across multiple platforms. This role will focus on building a strong online presence, engaging with fans, and optimizing content across ETTU’s website, social media, and OTT platform. The ideal candidate will be a creative, data-driven individual with experience in digital content creation, video production, social media strategy, and analytics. A passion for sports and strong communication skills are essential, as this role involves engaging with diverse audiences and attending events. Key Responsibilities: Digital Content and Social Media Management: OTT Platform Strategy and Management: Event Digital Content and Media Coordination: Qualifications: Preferred Skills: Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a CV and cover letter, to Galia Dvorak galia.dvorak@ettu.org and Pierre Kass pierre.kass@ettu.org no later than 31st December 2024.
Annett KAUFMANN Crowned Youth World Champion in Helsingborg
The unstoppable rise of Annett KAUFMANN has reached a new pinnacle. At the Youth World Championships in Helsingborg, Sweden, the exceptional 18-year-old talent reached the most significant peak of her young career. With a 4:2 victory over China’s rising star ZONG Geman, the European champion in all youth events in the U19 age group become crowned Youth World Champion, after finishing third last year. Previously, the only German to win this title in singles was former national player Patrick BAUM in 2005. In the shadow of KAUFMANN’S outstanding triumph, two other major German successes nearly went unnoticed: Mia GRIESEL (U19) and Koharu ITAGAKI (U15) each won bronze after closely contested semifinals against Chinese opponents. Earlier, Germany secured two additional bronze medals, one in the U15 girls’ team event and another in doubles, where KAUFMANN teamed up with Welsh player Anna HURSEY. With these, the German Table Tennis Association’s medal count at the 2024 championships climbed to five. Since the inaugural Youth World Championships in 2003, German talents have won a total of 34 medals. What a year it has been for Annett KAUFMANN. After focusing on and excelling in her final high school exams in the spring, the native of Wolfsburg claimed her first senior national singles title at the German Table Tennis Finals in Erfurt. Less than two months later, she emerged as the breakout star of the Paris Olympics, unexpectedly leading the German women’s team to the semifinals with stellar performances. In the fall, she won her first European Championship individual medal in Linz, taking mixed doubles silver alongside Saarbrücken’s Patrick FRANZISKA. She capped off this extraordinary year by winning the Youth World Championship title in Helsingborg. KAUFMANN’S win in the final was well-deserved: she defeated ZONG Geman, one of China’s brightest table tennis prospects, with a commanding 4:2 scoreline. ZONG had already secured doubles and mixed doubles titles before the singles final but was unable to counter KAUFMANN’S assertive style. Earlier, KAUFMANN had defeated the tournament’s top seed, Egypt’s Hana GODA, in the semifinals by dictating the game throughout. As the final point landed, KAUFMANN dropped her paddle in disbelief and felt immense relief. “I can’t believe it; it feels surreal. It was a very tough match, and my adversary played exceptionally well,” said the newly crowned champion. Kaufmann also expressed gratitude: “I am very thankful to everyone who has supported me here, back home, and throughout the years. Special thanks to Lara [U19 coach Lara BROICH], who guided me through the tournament, my family, my sponsors, and everyone behind the scenes. Without their trust, I wouldn’t be here.” Lara BROICH lauded her pupil’s achievement: “Hats off to Annett for becoming World Champion.” With her gold in singles and bronze in doubles alongside Anna HURSEY, Kaufmann increased her career medal tally at Youth World Championships to seven. She previously won bronze in singles, silver in doubles, and silver in mixed doubles in 2023. In 2022, she and Mia Griesel claimed bronze in doubles, and in 2021, she won silver in the U15 category. Earlier in the day, it seemed Germany might see an all-German final. While KAUFMANN dominated her semifinal against Egypt’s Hana GODA, Mia GRIESEL led 2:1 against ZONG Geman on an adjacent table. However, the Chinese player turned the match around to win the next three sets. Despite the defeat, GRIESEL delivered a thrilling performance, having earlier upset South Korea’s YOO Yerin and France’s Charlotte LUTZ. Afterward, the 18-year-old reflected positively on her bronze medal: “I felt there was more potential today, but overall, I’m very happy with my performance and medal.” Koharu ITAGAKI, only 14 years old, returned home with two bronze medals. Competing in U15, she faced Chinese players who were just slightly stronger in both team and singles events. Nonetheless, she defeated several tough opponents, including Taiwan’s WU Ying-Syuan, before narrowly losing to HU Yi in the semifinals. “Koharu played an incredible match and showed technical skills like never before,” commented U15 coach Jie SCHÖPP.
