Jose A. Benzaquen Perea
Since its official recognition as an Olympic sport in 1988, table tennis has witnessed a surge in popularity worldwide, and Qatar has been a major role through hosting numerous international tournaments, to become prime destination for the world’s best players.
This trend continues in January 2024, as Doha gears up to host four prestigious tournaments as part of the WTT World Championship events. Thanks to the efforts of the Qatar Table Tennis Federation and its President Khalil Al Muhanadi, Doha will become a global hub for table tennis excellence. We express our admiration for Al Muhanadi’s unwavering dedication and leadership in promoting the sport, along with his invaluable support and the contributions of his dedicated team.
The Lusail Multipurpose Hall will transform into a global meeting point for table tennis, welcoming 700 players from the world across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. These top athletes will compete in a fierce display of skill and strategy across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories.
Ambassador of Peru to Qatar, H E Jose A Benzaquen Perea, and Qatar Table Tennis Federation President Khalil Al Muhanadi pose for a photo with the WTT Contender Doha 2023 winner Hugo Calderano of Brazil and runner-up Jang Woojin of South Korea, in this file photo.
The WTT World Championship events in Doha promise to be more than just a competition; they will be a celebration of excellence, showcasing the pinnacle of table tennis on a global stage. Be prepared to witness breathtaking rallies, incredible athleticism, and moments of pure sporting magic.
It should be noted that table tennis, born in England in the 19th century, has become a popular sport due to all the benefits that its practice entails, such as the ability to concentrate, reflexes, balance, and mental agility, which the athletes develop during their practice.
This Game has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent years, solidifying its place as one of the world’s most popular sports. It boasts one of the largest global memberships, a testament to its accessibility and appeal across cultures. Even NASA has recognized the sport’s complexity, designating it as one of the most challenging to master at a professional level.
Table tennis isn’t just a fast-paced game; it’s also one of the world’s most popular sports, ranking third in terms of federated players! Imagine: a tiny ball whizzing at up to 190 km/h within the blink of an eye (just 0.003 seconds of contact with the racket!). Every rally is a test of lightning reflexes and pinpoint precision.
In Peru, table tennis has found its way into educational institutions, where its numerous benefits are harnessed to enhance the development of students.
We are confident that the WTT World Championship events, organised by Qatar Table Tennis Association will bring together the world’s top players in a thrilling display of athleticism and skill. Witnessing this gathering of international talent promises to be a truly privileged experience.
