Doha: Secretary-General of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Raul Calin, praised the exceptional organization of the World Table Tennis Championship Doha 2025, considering it one of the best editions he has witnessed in his more than two-decade career.
According to Qatar News Agency, Calin stated that Qatar is the first Middle Eastern country to host both the World Team Championship in 2004 and the Individual World Championship in 2025, setting an example for other countries in the region. He emphasized that these global tournaments are not only sporting competitions but also a source of inspiration for neighboring countries to develop and embrace the game.
Reflecting on Qatar's journey, Calin remarked that the spectacular organization seen today is not a sudden achievement but the result of years of effort and a clear vision, starting in 1994 with the first professional tour event hosted by Qatar, the inaugural Qatar International Championship.
He praised the organizing committee for its hospitality, the quality of accommodations, attention to detail, and the contributions of everyone involved in making the event a global success.
Calin also highlighted Lusail Arena as the best in terms of infrastructure and fan experience across all tournaments he has attended in the past 21 years.
Discussing the intensity of the matches, Calin noted that some of the world's top players are competing in Doha, resulting in strong competition and unexpected surprises in the early rounds, a testament to the game's progress and growing professionalism.
He expressed his pride in the presence of esteemed figures, including HE President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, at the opening ceremony, adding that this reinforced institutional support and recognition for the event.
Calin also revealed that President of the International Olympic Committee Thomas Bach is expected to visit during the final rounds, further underscoring the global importance of table tennis.
Regarding the ITTF Presidential Elections, Calin explained that three candidates are currently in the race, emphasizing the strict separation between administrative responsibilities and the sporting event itself.
He noted that the elections will be held as part of the ITTF Summit alongside the championship, but the tournament remains the primary sporting focus.
In closing, Calin reminisced about his first official day working with ITTF on March 1, 2004, during the World Championship hosted by Qatar, stressing that since that day, Doha has held a special place in his heart.