World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) is an annual celebration of the sport of table tennis, emphasizing its universal appeal and inclusivity. It goes beyond competition, focusing on bringing people together through the joy of playing, regardless of age, gender, social status, or physical ability.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 23
- Tagged as: Inclusive, Fun, and Social
- What’s the hashtag?: #WorldTableTennisDay
- When was it founded?: 2015
- Who founded it?: International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)
History of World Table Tennis Day
World Table Tennis Day was launched in 2015 by the ITTF to promote table tennis as a sport for everyone. Originally celebrated on April 6 to align with the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, it was later moved to April 23 to honor Ivor Montagu, the founder and first president of the ITTF. Montagu also organized the first World Table Tennis Championships in 1926. The day highlights table tennis as a tool for social inclusion and global unity.
Timeline
- 1880s: Table tennis is invented in England as a parlor game.
- 1926: The ITTF is founded, and the first World Championships are held in London.
- 1988: Table tennis becomes an official Olympic sport.
- 2000: Scoring changes from 21 points to 11 points per game.
- 2015: World Table Tennis Day is officially celebrated for the first time.
Dates from 2025 to 2030
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 23 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 23 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 23 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 23 | Sunday |
| 2029 | April 23 | Monday |
| 2030 | April 23 | Tuesday |
Observed
World Table Tennis Day is celebrated globally through tournaments, exhibitions, and fun activities in schools, workplaces, clubs, and public spaces. Events focus on participation rather than competition, making it accessible to everyone.
Fun Facts About World Table Tennis Day
- The day celebrates Ivor Montagu’s contributions to table tennis and sports diplomacy.
- The ITTF’s “Table Tennis for ALL” initiative promotes diversity by including people of all ages and abilities.
- Table tennis has been an Olympic sport since 1988, with thrilling matches watched worldwide.
Quiz
- When is World Table Tennis Day celebrated?
- Who founded the ITTF?
- What year did table tennis become an Olympic sport?
Answers:
- April 23
- Ivor Montagu
- 1988
FAQs
- What is World Table Tennis Day?:
- A global celebration of table tennis promoting inclusion and unity through sport.
- Why April 23?
- It honors Ivor Montagu’s birthday, a key figure in table tennis history.
- How can I celebrate?
- Organize or join events like friendly matches or exhibitions in your community!
Related
- International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (April 6)
- Olympic Games (featuring table tennis since 1988)
- International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)