Latest news with #WorldTableTennisChampionshipsDoha2025
Qatar Tribune
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikh Joaan inaugurates World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025
Tribune News Network Doha HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, officially inaugurated the World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025, which got underway at the Lusail and Qatar University halls on Saturday. The tournament, running until May 25, will see participation of 640 players from 127 countries across five continents. The opening ceremony was attended by Petra Sorling, President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), alongside numerous dignitaries, including leaders from the Asian and international sports and Olympic communities. The event began with Qatari national anthem played against a backdrop of soft lighting and the flag. In his welcome address, Sheikh Joaan, who is also the Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the World Championships, emphasised Qatar's commitment to hosting major global sporting events as a means of fostering cultural exchange and advancing international sports. Speaking at the ceremony, Khalil bin Ahmed Al Mohannadi, President of the Qatar Table Tennis Federation and Tournament's Director General, also welcomed the international delegations. 'We are proud to host the World Table Tennis Championships for the second time in Qatar's history, making us the first Middle Eastern nation to do so since the 2004 edition,' said Al Mohannadi, who also serves as President of the Arab and Asian Federations and First Vice President of the ITTF. 'This milestone reinforces Qatar's reputation as a regional hub for global sport, and as a unifying platform for fair competition and mutual respect.' He added that extensive preparations had gone into delivering a world-class event, thanking state institutions and organising committees for their dedication. 'We extend our sincere gratitude to HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani for his invaluable support, which played a pivotal role in bringing us to this moment,' he said. 'We hope this championship will leave behind unforgettable memories and strengthen the bonds between people through sport. Welcome to Qatar – now and always.' Celebrating global sport with local heritage The vibrant ceremony blended sportsmanship, cultural heritage, and digital artistry. Highlights included: A dynamic LED visual display recounting the championship's history and key moments and a speech from ITTF President Petra Sorling, praising the event's organisation and global scope. A performance was held of the traditional Qatari Ardha dance, showcasing national pride and cultural depth before adazzling laser and light show, combining music, smoke effects, and synchronized visuals reflected the energy of the sport.
Qatar Tribune
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Qatar Tribune
Sheikh Joaan opens World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025
Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani on Saturday inaugurated the World Table Tennis Championships Doha 2025, which is being hosted by Doha at the Lusail and Qatar University competition will continue until May 25 with the participation of 640 players, representing 127 countries from five continents. In a touching national moment, the Qatari national anthem was played amid soft lighting and a backdrop of the flag, followed by a welcoming speech from Sheikh Joaan, who affirmed Qatar's commitment to organising global sporting events that reflect the spirit of cultural exchange and the advancement of the game. (TNN) page 12
