Belgian table tennis has lost one of its greatest names with the passing of Norbert VAN DE WALLE at the age of 85.
A legendary defender and one of the most respected figures in Belgian table tennis history, VAN DE WALLE left a remarkable mark on the sport through a career that spanned decades. He won six Belgian national titles, claiming his first crown in 1964 and his last in 1972, while also representing Belgium an incredible 215 times in the national team colours.
Widely regarded as the finest defensive player Belgium has ever produced, VAN DE WALLE was admired not only for his consistency and fighting spirit at the table, but also for his deep love of the sport that remained with him throughout his life.
His table tennis journey began far from Belgium. After his parents moved to Chicago, he started his career in the United States and even represented the US junior national team before eventually returning to Belgium, where he would go on to become one of the country’s most iconic players.
Even in recent years, VAN DE WALLE remained closely connected to the table tennis community. He was still present in March at the Belgian National Championships in Spa, once again showing his passion and dedication to the sport that shaped his life.
The European table tennis family extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, former teammates and the Belgian table tennis community.
His legacy will remain an important part of Belgian table tennis history forever.
