The unity of the world came to fore as the long-awaited ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals Busan 2024 presented by BNK Busan Bank was officially opened at the state-of-the-art Busan Exhibition and Convention Centre (BEXCO) venue in South Korea.
The ceremony which heralded the commencement of an exciting tournament which had some of the top table tennis playing nations in attendance marked an historical one, being the first time Korea Republic is hosting the prestigious event.
In a warm display of the calmness of the Koreans, the opening ceremony took off with the captivating “One Table, One World History” Opening Video, highlighting the profound significance of table tennis as a global unifier amid the global challenges as it stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the table tennis community worldwide.
According to ITTF website, it was an electrifying music and dance performance titled “Unleashed Beats: Ping Pong Harmony” followed, created by sampling the renowned song “Ping Pong” by world-famous DJ Armin van Buuren with a traditional Korean military band, Chui-ta-dae.
The accelerating rhythm of the table tennis ball within the music served as a powerful symbol, reflecting the increasing passion of the players and the rising excitement of the audience as the World Championships unfolded. This fusion captured the essence of table tennis, sparking excitement and anticipation among the audience.
For Petra Sörling, ITTF President, gratitude should go to the hosts and partners for their unwavering support, while underlining the World Championships’ significance in showcasing global talent and uniting fans in celebration of table tennis. “This event is more than just a competition; it symbolises unity and the collective celebration of our shared love for table tennis. Guided by the slogan “one table, one world,” every player—from the experienced veterans to the young talents—brings forth their unique talent and passion to the table, ready to showcase the very best of our sport,” said Sorling.
At the opening ceremony on Saturday, February 17, Ryu Seung-min, President of the Korea Table Tennis Association, ITTF Executive Board Member and IOC Member, was indeed a proud man. “This marks Korea’s first World Championships, and it signals a new era for Korean table tennis. The powerful rallies that will unfold in Busan serve as a milestone towards the centenary of table tennis in Korea, captivating table tennis enthusiasts worldwide. Despite the challenges posed by the cancellation in 2020, the determination of Busan citizens and our Korean table tennis family secured our hosting once more, demonstrating resilience and unity. I’m grateful to all for their support,” he said.
Heong-joon Park, Co-president and Busan City Mayor, welcomed all participants, while also highlighting the role of table tennis in fostering unity and harmony. He emphasised the special significance of hosting this year’s championship in Busan, a city cherished by its vibrant community of table tennis enthusiasts. Additionally, he noted the momentous occasion of celebrating the 100th anniversary of table tennis in Korea, underscoring the event’s historical importance.
The ceremony ended with a captivating performance by renowned vocalist Sohyang, symbolising the unifying power of music and sport.
The historical ITTF World Team Championships Finals Busan 2024 promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, passion, and sportsmanship, uniting players and fans from around the globe in the spirit of competition. Over the next nine days, the eyes of table tennis fans from all around the world will be focused on Busan, eagerly anticipating the clashes between the globe’s strongest teams vying for two of the sport’s most coveted titles.