Global Table Tennis Leadership Charts course for Future Growth with Key Visits to Japan & South Korea
International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) President Petra Sörling recently completed a productive series of visits to Japan and South Korea, solidifying partnerships and laying the groundwork for major upcoming events. Thes trips underscore the ITTF’s commitment to expanding the sport’s reach and delivering extraordinary experiences for players and fans alike.
Japan Confirmed as 2028 World Team Championships Host
Sörling’s visit to Japan centered around the confirmation of the 2028 ITTF World Team Championships Finals. Ling noted the high expectations surrounding Japan’s return as a host nation, praising its proven track record of accomplished event delivery.
“The ITTF World Team Championships Finals 2028 will be a milestone for our sport and a celebration of Japan’s table tennis tradition,” Sörling stated. she further emphasized the ITTF’s dedication to collaborating with the Japanese Table Tennis Association (JTTA) to create a world-class event.
Beyond the championships, Sörling engaged with the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC). She met with JOC President hashimoto Seiko and Secretary General Ota Yuki, discussing Japan’s Vision 2064 and exploring opportunities for table tennis to contribute through progress programs and additional international events. This dialog highlighted Japan’s pivotal role in the future of the World Championships and fostered stronger collaboration with key stakeholders.
South Korea Builds Momentum for 2024 & 2026 Events
following Japan,President Sörling traveled to Seoul,South Korea,to attend the 22nd International Paralympic Committee General Assembly and Conference. This gathering brought together nearly 400 representatives from 190 IPC member organizations, including the ITTF.
During her time in South Korea, Sörling also met with Korean Sport and Olympic Committee President Ryu Seungmin and Korea Table Tennis Association President Lee Tae Sung. Discussions focused on building upon the success of the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals Busan 2024 and accelerating preparations for the ITTF World Masters Championships Gangneung 2026.
“We all have vivid memories of our time in Busan last year, and the work of Korea Table Tennis has kept the momentum for our sport in the country,” Sörling remarked. She noted the notable early registration numbers for Gangneung, with 20% of expected participation already secured within two months.This demonstrates strong interest and anticipation for the upcoming event.
Broadening Global Connections & Insights
Sörling’s itinerary also included valuable engagements with othre international sports leaders. she connected with International Federation presidents and IOC members Morinari Watanabe and Lord Sebastian Coe.
At Lord Coe’s invitation, she attended the World Athletics Championships 2025, observing best practices in major event operations and legacy planning. These insights will be invaluable as the ITTF continues to elevate its own events.
Looking Ahead: China Smash on the Horizon
President Sörling’s next destination is China, where she will attend the WTT China Smash. This visit underscores the ITTF’s commitment to engaging with key markets and fostering the continued growth of table tennis worldwide.
These recent visits demonstrate the ITTF’s proactive approach to strengthening its global partnerships and ensuring a bright future for the sport. You can expect continued innovation and exciting developments as the ITTF works to deliver exceptional experiences for players, fans, and the entire table tennis community.
