— Published on November 20, 2024
Table tennis
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has decided to give a facelift to the World Paralympic Circuit. She announces that she has completely reviewed not only her calendar and her organization, but also her image. Starting next year, the new para table tennis circuit will offer three levels of tournaments: Future for the hopes of the discipline, Challenger for the intermediate stage, with eight competitions per year, and finally Elite at the top of the pyramid. In total, the 2025 calendar will feature more than 20 events around the world, a number never before reached in para table tennis. At the same time, the world circuit will have a new logo. Finally, the world ranking is also modified, with points being awarded based on performances achieved during each event, updated weekly.
1. Introduction:
Editor: Hello and welcome everyone to today’s interview. We have with us two distinguished guests to discuss the recent developments in the field of para table tennis. First, we have Mr. John Doe, the Head Coach of the Indian Paralympic Table Tennis Team, and Ms. Jane Smith, the founder of Table Tennis Revolution, a non-profit organization that promotes the sport among the differently-abled community. Let’s dive right in!
2. Reaction to ITTF’s Announcement:
Editor: How have you both responded to the recent announcement by the ITTF about the complete revamping of the World Paralympic Circuit for table tennis? Could you share your thoughts on the new tournament structure, the addition of the Future and Challenger events, and the elimination of the Para Tour?
Mr. Doe: I am quite excited about the new structure as it will provide more opportunities for our players to compete at different levels and improve their rankings. The Future tournaments will serve as a platform for young, upcoming talent to showcase their skills and receive recognition. The Challenger events will be a good platform for intermediate players to test their skills against tougher competition. However, I am a bit disappointed that the Para Tour is being eliminated, as it was a great way for players from different regions to participate and gain exposure.
Ms. Smith: I agree with Mr. Doe that the new structure is a positive step forward for the sport. The addition of the Challenger events will certainly increase the number of tournaments and provide more opportunities for players to compete. It will also help us identify rising stars in the sport and provide them with the resources to continue improving. The Elite events will serve as the pinnacle of competition, which is crucial for attracting top-level sponsors and increasing media coverage. I am also glad that the ITTF is taking steps to revamp the image of para table tennis, as it was long overdue.
3. New Logo and World Rankings:
Editor: Ms. Smith, as the founder of an organization that promotes table tennis among the differently-abled, what are your thoughts on the new logo unveiled by the ITTF? And, Mr. Doe, how do you
