The ITTF counted the results of 1234, which were wonderful, and the first picture was given to Wang Yidi
2023 is coming to an end, and the ITTF has written an article to review the results of the year and summarize the eight major points. Liu Guoliang is not mentioned in the article, but those who have an important relationship with him are ranked second and third. The first picture of the ITTF article is Wang Yidi, which is a compliment to Dadi's ranking to the second place in the world.
Here's the Chinese translation: Looking back on 2023, the ITTF had a wonderful year that left a special chapter in the history of table tennis – a year that resonated with the passion, unity and groundbreaking innovation that defined the sport.
[1. The ITTF World Championships returned to Africa after 84 years]
Durban, South Africa, hosts the 2023 ITTF World Championships, which returns to Africa after 84 years as one of the most special moments of the year.
ITTF President and IOC Member Petra Sorrin: "2023 has been a year of remarkable development and solidarity for our sport and a testament to our collaborative efforts with member associations around the world. This year has been incredible
Faith's journey of growth, which is made possible through our collective dedication to sustainability and nurturing a more vibrant, inclusive and connected table tennis community. The ITTF would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to its member associations for their support, cooperation and commitment. ”
One of the highlights of this year is the return of the ITTF World Championships to Africa for the first time in 84 years. It was held in Durban, South Africa, and was a milestone in the history of table tennis. More than just a tournament, the event is a testament to the ITTF's strong commitment to inclusivity and the global expansion of table tennis. Africa's welcome to this tournament resonated around the world, celebrating the continent's deep heritage in table tennis.
One eye-catching moment came when Egypt's Omar Assal became the second African to reach the quarter-finals. Asar's victory, accompanied by a heartfelt embrace between him and Cuadri Aruna, symbolizes their friendship that transcends competition and inspires players and fans across the continent.
[2. The return of the World Cup]
The inaugural ITTF Mixed Team World Cup (Chengdu), held at the end of the year, represents a beacon of innovation and progress in the sport. Its revolutionary form symbolizes the unifying spirit of gender equality and teamwork. The event's groundbreaking approach captivated the world, showcasing inclusivity and setting a new standard for collaboration, making it an important milestone in the development of the sport.
[3. World Table Tennis Federation WTT]
2023 has been an exciting year for the World Table Tennis Federation (WTT) Series, with an increasing number of events, with the WTT Series coming to major markets such as India, Germany, Japan for the first time, marking a significant step forward for the World Table Tennis Series. The journey to the WTT Finals has been spectacular, with each event witnessing fierce competition and attracting fans from all over the world.
Don't forget the WTT Youth Series, which has become a key stage for supporting rising stars from all corners of the globe, and the ITTF World Junior Championships have laid the foundation for an event that truly celebrates the talent in our sport. ”
[4. Future champions]
The ITTF World Junior Championships, which took place in November in the centre of Nova Gorica, Slovenia, were a dynamic showcase.
This landmark event celebrates the sport's vibrant future, showcasing the dedication and skills of U15 and U19 participants, giving people confidence in the sport's potential. In addition, collaborative efforts extended beyond the tournament, culminating in an impactful anti-doping education programme for youth, reinforcing the ITTF's commitment to clean and fair play.
[5. Table tennis for the disabled]
2023 was a record-breaking year for the Para Table Tennis Series, with a total of 29 tournaments held by all continental federations. The outstanding performances of the Paralympians have demonstrated their extraordinary skills and prowess on the field, setting new standards for the sport.
In addition, in 2023, the first phase of the qualifying round for table tennis at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games has ended, with a total of 47 men and 32 women qualifying. This marks the ITTF's commitment to advocating for diversity, equity and the future of Para table tennis on the global stage.
[6. Past and present champions]
Don't forget the ITTF World Seniors Championships. Now renamed the ITTF World Masters Championships, the tournament was held in scenic Muscat, Oman. In addition to pure competition, it embodies a commitment to this solidarity movement, bringing together more than 1,600 participants to play a symphony of inclusivity and shared passion.
This championship shows that table tennis is not only a competitive stage, but also a national sport that will benefit you for life. It is part of the ITTF's broader strategy to promote inclusivity, making table tennis an engaging sport accessible to enthusiasts of all ages.
[7. The new date of World Table Tennis Day pays tribute to Ivor Montagu]
World Table Tennis Day is celebrated on 23 April each year, with a significant change from the previous 6 April. The date was chosen to commemorate the birthday of ITTF founder and inaugural President Ivor Montague and underline the ITTF's commitment to fostering a sustainable future for the sport and the planet under the theme of "Think Sustainably, Act Now".
[8. Table tennis leaps into the future]
Moving into the future, VR table tennis was successfully unveiled during the Singapore Olympic Esports Week in June. To embrace this digital transformation, the ITTF has announced that it will host the first VR Table Tennis World Championship in 2024.
"2023 marks a significant step forward in the further modernization of our sport," said Steve Dainton, CEO of the ITTF Group. "This year has been full of innovation, leaps forward and our community working together to create a more dynamic table tennis landscape. Every step we take echoes our commitment to pioneering new eras, embracing innovation, and staying true to the sport's core values. We bid farewell to 2023, a year that brought with it the challenges posed by the pandemic, but with a new vision for the evolving, more unified and captivating table tennis experience in the future. As we prepare for more top-level events in 2024, as well as the Olympics, there will be more table tennis events than ever before.
Ping Pong Hu Qingyuan