Rome, the capital city of Italy, has etched its name in history by hosting the largest table tennis event ever: the ITTF World Masters Table Tennis Championships Rome 2024. From July 7 to 14, the Nuova Fiera di Roma will welcome 6,100 athletes aged between 40 and 99 years from over 111 member associations of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
The event is expected to attract over 2,500 accompanying persons and officials, along with nearly 10,000 table tennis enthusiasts eager to witness history in the Italian capital.
The lively opening ceremony brought together players from around the world, showcasing spectacular performances that celebrated Italian culture.
In her opening remarks, ITTF President Petra Sorling emphasized the inclusivity of table tennis as a sport for all ages.
“With players from 40 to 99 years young, we are here celebrating table tennis as a sport for all and for life. Whether you are a seasoned Masters champion or a newcomer to this scene, whether you come from Rome or from another continent, whether you play table tennis or para table tennis, you are an integral part of our family, and we welcome you here,” Sorling said.
President Renato Di Napoli of the Italian Table Tennis Federation expressed satisfaction with the impressive turnout.
He welcomed the 6,100 athletes representing 110 member associations across five continents to Rome, promising an unforgettable experience.
The championships will feature singles and doubles competitions across 11 age categories, starting from 40 years old. Notably, this event marks the inclusion of Para table tennis players for the first time, demonstrating the ITTF’s commitment to equal opportunities within the sport.