After six days of competition, the Men’s Singles events at the 2025 European Veterans Championships concluded in Novi Sad with thrilling performances across all age groups  from the 40+ to the 90+ category. Over 2,500 participants from across Europe showed not only skill and experience, but also passion and camaraderie that define veteran sport at its best. In the youngest age group (Over 40), top-seeded Grigory VLASOV (AIN) justified his ranking by securing the gold medal after a strong campaign. France’s Thomas GUIGNAT clinched silver, while Josip HUZJAK (Croatia) and Mathias HABESOHN (Austria) earned bronze. The Over 45 event saw a familiar face return to the top of the podium Lucian FILIMON, last year’s Over 40 champion, now competing under the French flag, lost in the final. Cédric MERCHEZ (Belgium) claimed gold, while Wojciech KOŁODZIEJCZYK (Poland) and Aleksei MLINARZH (AIN) shared bronze. In the singles there was no medal for Serbia’s Aleksandar KARAKAŠEVIĆ, one of the most recognizable names in the Over 50 field, as Ioannis VLOTINOS (Greece) emerged as the champion in that category. Czechia’s David ŠTĚPÁNEK finished runner-up, and Fredrik ÅBORG (Sweden) and Krisztian SZABÓ (Hungary) completed the podium. However partnering Croatia’s Dragutin SURBEK in Doubles, KARAKASEVIC clinched gold. In the Over 55, Lorestas TRUMPAUSKAS (England) proved unstoppable on his path to gold. Lars MATTSSON (Sweden) took silver, while Henric FORSBERG (Sweden) and Iván VITSEK (Hungary) shared third. Hungary’s Zsolt-Georg BÖHM stood tall in the Over 60, ahead of Carsten EGEHOLT (Denmark). Serbia’s Zvonimir BRITKA and Miklós NAGY (Hungary) picked up bronze medals. Austria celebrated gold through Yi DING in the Over 65 age group, with Igor ROLDUGIN (AIN) taking silver. Miroslav CECAVA (Czechia) and Šandor JANKOVIĆ (Serbia) completed the medal count. The Over 70 category was dominated by Manfred NIESWAND (Germany), with Alexandr SAPRYKIN (Ukraine) taking silver, and Paal GUTTORMSEN (Norway) and Hristo DASKALOV (Bulgaria) earning bronze. Germany’s strength in the older age groups continued in the Over 75, Over 80, and Over 90 categories: Gerd WERNER won gold in Over 75.Wilfried LIECK led a full German podium in Over 80, with Germany sweeping all medals. In Over 90, Hans NOLTE (Germany) earned gold, followed by Georgijs LOBONOSOVS (Latvia), while Heini FUCHS (Switzerland) and Henri YAHIEL (France) took bronze. Spain’s Josep MADURELL RODRIGUEZ also made headlines by winning the Over 85 crown, proving that age is truly just a number in veteran sport. See the pictures here Men’s Singles 40 Men’s Singles 45 Men’s Singles 50 Men’s Singles 55 Men’s Singles 60 Men’s Singles 65 Men’s Singles 70 Men’s Singles 75 Men’s Singles 80 Men’s Singles 85 Men’s Singles 90 MEN’S DOUBLES EVENTS Men’s Doubles 40 Men’s Doubles 45 Men’s Doubles 50 Men’s Doubles 55 Men’s Doubles 60 Men’s Doubles 65 Men’s Doubles 70 Men’s Doubles 75 Men’s Doubles 80 Men’s Doubles 85

The Women’s Singles competitions at the 2025 European Veterans Table Tennis Championships in Novi Sad came to an emotional and energetic close, crowning champions across ten age categories — from 40+ to 85+. What began as a show of top-seeded experience turned into a festival of fierce competition and heartwarming stories of resilience. In the Over 40 category, Marina DONNER (Finland) successfully defended her title, confirming her top-seed status with a commanding run. Hungary’s Tímea AMBRUS earned silver, while Kätlin PÕLDVEER (Estonia) and Emilia KIJOK (Poland) completed the podium. The Over 45 division followed the script as well, with Portugal’s Olga CHRAMKO converting her top seeding into gold. Svetlana POPOVTSEVA (AIN) finished second, and Laura KRUMINA (Norway) and Diana PATAKI (Hungary) shared bronze. A surprise came in the Over 50, where Serbia’s Stanisava DIMANIĆ emerged as the champion, ahead of AIN’s Elena CHUNIKHINA. Pre-tournament favorites Krisztina SPENGLER (Hungary) and Larisa LAVRUKHINA (AIN) settled for bronze. In the Over 55 category, Elżbieta KAZBERUK (Poland) took top honors, defeating Sweden’s Ulrika HANSSON in the final. Fellow Swede Lena JOHNSSON, the No. 1 seed, reached the semifinals alongside Jutta ERNST (Germany). AIN’s Inna TIKHOMIROVA was crowned champion in the Over 60, with a strong showing against Ukraine’s Galyna YENENKO in the final. Spain’s Maria VINTILA TIFACHI and Marta DAUBNEROVA (Slovakia) took home bronze. Croatian legend Branka BATINIĆ lived up to expectations in the Over 65 category, claiming gold in dominant fashion. Germany’s Birgit FINGER took silver, while Kai THORNBECH (Estonia) and Giulia SOBRERO (Italy) earned bronze. BATINIĆ also secured gold in the Doubles event, completing a remarkable campaign. Novi Sad holds a special place in her career — she competed at the European Championships in the same venue in 1974 and returned to play again in 1981 at SPENS when she clinched bronze. In the Over 70, Switzerland’s Elmira ANTONYAN BRUNNER topped a highly competitive bracket. The AIN contingent swept the remaining medals with Ekaterina KRASNOVA taking silver, and Dina MINAKOVA and Larisa ANDREEVA each securing bronze. Italy’s Rita POGOSOVA emerged victorious in the Over 75 group, with Larisa ILINSKAIA (AIN) taking silver. Bronze went to Linda SIMPSON (England) and Alicja SKRZYPICKA (Poland). The Over 80 category saw Gizella ZACHER (Hungary) claim gold, ahead of Renata BURG (Austria). Bronze was awarded to Mirosława BUTRYM (Poland) and Colette LE CORVEC (France). Finally, in the Over 85, Gertrud MIKYSKA (Austria) stood atop the podium, with Heidi WUNNER (Germany) earning silver. Eva ŠVECOVÁ (Czechia) and Chantal MASSET (France) completed the medal round. The atmosphere in Novi Sad proved once again why the European Veterans Championships remain a cherished fixture on the calendar — a celebration of sport at every age. See the pictures here WOMEN’S SINGLES Women’s Singles 40 Women’s Singles 45 Women’s Singles 50 Women’s Singles 55 Women’s Singles 60 Women’s Singles 65 Women’s Singles 70 Women’s Singles 75 Women’s Singles 80 Women’s Singles 85 WOMEN’S DOUBLES Women’s Doubles 40 Women’s Doubles 45 Women’s Doubles 50 Women’s Doubles 55 Women’s Doubles 60 Women’s Doubles 65 Women’s Doubles 70 Women’s Doubles 75 Women’s Doubles 80

The 2025 European Veterans Table Tennis Championships concluded after six vibrant days of competition at the Novosadski Sajam, gathering 2,593 participants from across Europe. On the final day of the event, ETTU Vice President Ina JOZEPSONE shared her impressions, reflecting on the organization, atmosphere, and future of the championships. Despite a late start in preparations due to internal changes, the Serbian Table Tennis Association managed to organize the event. From your perspective, did they succeed? “Absolutely. Despite the initial delay in starting the preparations, the Serbian TTF delivered an exceptional European Veterans Championships . From our perspective, everything was organized at a high level — from logistics and venue readiness to hospitality and overall event management. The seamless execution reflected the professionalism and dedication of the entire team,” explained ETTU Vice President in charge for Veterans. JOZEPSONE added: “Remarkably, although the core preparations were completed in just three months, there were no visible shortcomings. The event met all expectations, and most importantly, spectators and participants alike would never guess how limited the timeframe truly was. It’s a testament to how focused planning, hard work, and experience can overcome even the toughest constraints. Everything was really well organized. The team in Novi Sad did a great job — you could feel their energy and commitment. The whole event went smoothly, and the atmosphere was fantastic. Honestly, it didn’t feel at all like it was put together in just a few months.” How would you assess the level of play and competition among the participants? “The level of competition was awe-inspiring, especially in some of the age groups. You can clearly see there are still many players who train regularly and bring great skills to the table. It’s always refreshing to witness such dedication and passion for the sport, even at veteran levels.” Were there moments outside the matches that stood out to you — did you reconnect with old friends? “Yes, I did! It was great to reconnect with old friends and colleagues from across Europe. These moments are really important — beyond the competition, it’s about staying connected, sharing experiences, and strengthening the table tennis community. Spending time together like this is what makes events like the EVC so special.” Looking ahead, are the preparations for the 2027 European Veterans Championships in Latvia already underway? “ Yes, preparations for the European Veterans Championships 2027 in Riga, Latvia are well underway. A dedicated logo has already been created, and the official website is live at evc2027.com. The organizing team has also been actively promoting the event — they had a visible presence at EVC 2025 in Novi Sad, with their own stand to engage with athletes and visitors.” How many participants do you expect in Riga in 2027? “Based on the strong interest shown during EVC 2025 and the enthusiasm we saw at the Latvian booth, it’s clear that the event is already generating significant excitement. With this momentum, it’s reasonable to expect that the participant count in Riga could reach — or even surpass — the 3,000 mark.”

Although the fierce battles under the roof of the Novi Sad Fair tell enough about why 2,500 players and just as many guests gathered this week at the European Veteran Championships, it is the camaraderie, enthusiasm, and above all, the love for table tennis that make this event truly special. That spirit was felt by none other than the legendary champion and ETTU Vice President, Zoran PRIMORAC, during his visit to Novi Sad.“I was there briefly, but I’m leaving with great impressions. From what I could see, the players are very satisfied. I heard from President Pedro MOURA that the preparations started with a slight delay due to changes within the Association, but none of that was noticeable. It was a real pleasure to be in Novi Sad and to feel all that energy and love for the sport,” said PRIMORAC.In the evening, he attended the official gala dinner hosted by the organizers, while during the day he spent time in the venue. The fighting spirit and passion of the competitors truly moved him.“I went from table to table – I wanted to absorb the atmosphere, to live every moment of it. This is exactly why we at ETTU are constantly working to raise the level of organization – to give all participants the opportunity to compete in a comfortable environment and to provide as much content and support as possible. I was also very happy to meet many former colleagues and to see how passionately they are still playing.” PRIMORAC had the chance to reconnect with table tennis greats such as DING Yi, Dragutin ŠURBEK, and Grigory VLASOV, as well as longtime friends from Serbia, including Aleksandar KARAKAŠEVIĆ, Slobodan GRUJIĆ, and STSS President Marko JEVTOVIĆ.“It was a wonderful opportunity to talk and reminisce about shared moments. I was especially happy to see Boba and Sale again, and Jevta was an outstanding host.”What did they talk about?“The conversations were relaxed, personal, and family-oriented… but of course, we also touched on those eternal sports topics – who beat whom, who was the best. That playful evaluation always comes up when athletes meet. What made me really happy was seeing that everyone still looks great, still has that familiar sparkle in their eyes, and is trying to preserve that youthful energy on their faces. I also spoke with Zoran KALINIĆ, and for a moment it felt like time had stopped. These people haven’t changed at all.”Today, Zoran PRIMORAC is the Vice President of the ETTU, President of the Croatian Table Tennis Association, and a member of the Executive Board of the Croatian Olympic Committee. The relentless pace he maintained as a player continues in his current role as a sports official.“Maybe I’m still a bit too active, but it’s a privilege to remain in sport. I believe that all of us who gained so much from sport have a responsibility to give something back. Through my work in the Athletes’ Commission of the Olympic Committee and with ITTF, I’ve always tried to create the best possible conditions for athletes – to help them reach their full potential and to avoid the kinds of challenges I faced during my playing career,” he said.PRIMORAC’S career, which spanned over two decades, was filled with success at the highest level. His partnership with Ilija LUPULESKU is particularly remembered as one of the most successful in table tennis history. The two won a silver medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul in men’s doubles – one of the greatest achievements for table tennis in the region.PRIMORAC also shone on the world championship stage, winning silver in New Delhi in 1987 in doubles with LUPULESKU and bronze in the team event. Four years later, in Chiba, alongside KALINIĆ, LUPULESKU, and SMREKAR, he claimed silver in the team competition. Representing Croatia, he earned a singles bronze in Gothenburg in 1993, and in partnership with Belarusian Vladimir SAMSONOV, took silver in Tianjin in 1995 and bronze in Eindhoven in 1999 in men’s doubles.His consistency and elite level were confirmed at numerous European Championships. As a young player, he won medals in doubles with LUPULESKU – bronze in Prague (1986), silver in Paris (1988), and gold in Gothenburg (1990). Later, he continued to achieve across all disciplines: mixed doubles gold with Hungary’s Csilla BÁTORFI in Manchester (1994), where he also earned a singles bronze and doubles silver with Belgium’s Jean-Michel SAIVE.His individual strength was on display throughout the years, with silver medals in singles at Eindhoven (1998) and Bremen (2000), and bronze medals in Zagreb (2002), Aarhus (2005), and Belgrade (2007). In Belgrade, he led the Croatian national team to a silver medal in the team event.PRIMORAC’S return to Novi Sad – this time as an official – was more than a symbolic visit. It was a moment to once again feel the heartbeat of the sport he devoted his life to, and to share it with those who, despite being veterans, still play with their whole heart. FOTO by Studio VUJCIN

The free day at the European Veterans Table Tennis Championships offered a welcome break for over 5,000 guests and participants gathered in Novi Sad, giving them the opportunity to step away from top-level table tennis and explore the beauty of the city—or in some cases, even make a quick trip to Belgrade. The evening program reached its peak with a gala night at Barutana, located on the slopes of Fruška Gora. The atmosphere was festive and unforgettable, bringing together a host of distinguished guests. Among those in attendance were ETTU President Pedro MOURA and ITTF President Petra SÖRLING, Vice President Francophonie Pongiste Internationale Beatrice ROMANESCU, along with table tennis legends, ETTU Vice-President Zoran PRIMORAC, Aleksandar KARAKAŠEVIĆ and Slobodan GRUJIĆ. Also present were Provincial Secretary for Sports and Youth Dane BASTA, General Director of the Novi Sad Fair Slobodan CVETKOVIĆ, City Council Member for Sports Tatjana MEDVED, Deputy Mayor Danijela ANDRIĆ, and City Council Member for Culture Maja ČEREMIDŽIĆ. “I am delighted to be back in Novi Sad for the biggest ETTU competition, the European Veterans Championships. Approximately 3 months ago I was here on an official visit, following the change of leadership of the Serbian Table Tennis Federation. To see the event going on in full steam and all the smiling faces around … what an amazing work by the Local Organizing Committee! I wish to congratulate the Serbian Table Tennis Federation and all Serbian Table Tennis community for this magnificent achievement. It has been a long way since these championships were awarded to Serbia but finally it is happening on a very high standards. We are all with a huge feeling of proudness,” said ETTU President MOURA. The audience was addressed by Championship Manager Dan FRACILE, while President of the Table Tennis Association of Serbia Predrag NIČIĆ presented plaques and certificates of appreciation to deserving individuals and partners. The evening was further enhanced by a musical performance—Senka Soldatović & Trio Midnight, accompanied by talented violinist Lana Zorjan, captivated the audience with their artistry and left a lasting impression on all those present. PHOTOS by Studio VUJCIN

The 2025 European Veterans Table Tennis Championships officially began today with a festive Opening Ceremony held at the Novi Sad Fair (Novosadski Sajam). Organized by the Serbian Table Tennis Association under the authority of the European Table Tennis Union, the prestigious event will take place from Monday, June 16 to Saturday, June 21. The opening marked the official launch of one of the largest sporting events ever hosted in Novi Sad, bringing together more than 2,500 players from 44 countries, competing across 11 age categories ranging from 40 to 90+ years. With thousands of visitors expected, the city is poised to become the epicenter of European veteran table tennis for the week ahead. In the Women’s Singles Over 40 Event, the defending champion Marina DONNER of Finland tops the seeding list, followed by last year’s runner-up Emilia KIJOK of Poland and Sweden’s Sofia WESTHOLM. In the Over 45 category, Olga CHRAMKO of Portugal is the top seed, with Germany’s Nikola JACKEL seeded second. The Over 50 category features Larisa LAVRUKHINA (AIN), Tumay EKREM of England, and Krisztina SPENGLER of Hungary as the leading names. Sweden’s Lena JOHNSSON is the top seed in the Over 55 category, while Galyna YENENKO of Ukraine leads the Over 60. Croatian legend Branka BATINIC is the top seed in the Over 65 event. In the youngest men’s category, Men’s Singles Over 40, the top seed is Grigory VLASOV (AIN), followed by Dauud CHEAIB of Germany and Stefano TOMASI of Italy. Last year’s winner in this category, Lucian FILIMON of Romania, has moved into the Over 45 group, where he holds the top seed. Croatian veteran Dragutin ŠURBEK competes in Group 6. In the Over 50 category, Maxim SHMYREV (AIN) leads the seedings, with Serbian legend Aleksandar KARAKAŠEVIĆ close behind as the second seed. Denmark’s Henrik VENDELBO tops Group 1 in the Over 55 category, while defending champion Thierry MILLER of Switzerland leads Group 3. This year’s edition marks a major milestone for Serbia, which is hosting the European Veterans Championships for the first time. However, Novi Sad is no stranger to major table tennis events. The city has previously hosted the European Championships in 1974, the European Youth Championships in 1988 and 2003, the World Championships in 1981, and the entire 2021 Women’s Europe Cup season during the COVID-19 pandemic. Novi Sad is now ready to write another memorable chapter in European table tennis history as it welcomes some of the sport’s most seasoned and celebrated players. You can see the pictures on FLICKR