International Events | 31 May 2023
Malta Secures Gold in Men's and Women's Events at GSSE 2023
Photo: Michael Azzopardi
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
