Diversity and Inclusion

In 2024, World Table Tennis Day celebrates the theme of "Diversity and Inclusion." This year's theme underscores the sport's unifying power, where individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities come together to share their passion for table tennis. It is a moment to recognize that diversity enriches our sporting communities, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of their gender, age, race, or physical capabilities, can participate and thrive. By embracing diversity and inclusion, World Table Tennis Day 2024 reinforces the belief that every person has the right to enjoy table tennis, making it a symbol of unity, equality, and mutual respect across the globe.

We invite you to celebrate the World Table Tennis Day! Join the global celebration on 23rd April 2024. No matter where you are in the world, if you are passionate about sport, the ITTF Foundation welcomes you to join the World Table Tennis Day celebration on 23rd April 2024. The access to play table tennis should be a matter of inclusivity as the sport 'belongs' to everyone.

Click on the image above to download the The WTTD Diversity and Inclusion Handbook - Phase 1. It offers practical insights and strategies relevant to various geographies and contexts, aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion in and through table tennis.

What do you have to do?

- Create a table tennis session, match, tournament, festival or any other creative platform to enjoy the sport with or without regular table tennis equipment (use regular desks instead of TT tables, phones instead of rackets and be as creative as you like!). Next up, invite people of different age groups, gender identities, abilities, nationalities, backgrounds, contexts etc. to play together while celebrating the idea of diversity!

1. Register your 'event' on our website (don't worry - it can be as small or big in size as you want and can manage)

2. As an incentive, we'll be giving 10 lucky celebration event organizers exclusive table tennis kits or autographed t-shirts by renowned table tennis players.

3. We may also use the celebration pictures you share for our ITTF Foundation article, highlighting your vibrant spirit!

If you feel you are not a good table tennis player or have no experience with the sport, don't worry because #TTBelongsToYou and to everyone!

This year, we are going to practise what we are preaching. The ITTF Foundation is celebrating its 5th anniversary and to mark this special occasion, we are celebrating it with our own event on 23rd April in Leipzig, Germany at the Central Train Station.

Team Up for a Tournament of Diversity and Inclusion

As Leipzig takes center stage in the global celebrations, a series of unique activities is set to spread the joy and passion for the sport to everyone. From 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm on April 23, live events, Diversity and Inclusion sessions, and fun sessions with table tennis stars will be hosted at the East Hall of Promenaden Leipzig Train Station. Among these activities, the TTBelongsToYou Teams Tournament stands out as a highlight of the day.

The TTBelongsToYou Teams Tournament: An event like no other

This tournament offers a unique experience where participants can win points before even stepping onto the table! Extra rules and awards have been added to promote diversity and inclusion. Teams will earn points in four categories, including 'Support', 'Creative Outfit', 'Diverse and Inclusive Team', judged by the ITTF Foundation team, and the competition results of the games. Winners in the four point-earning categories will receive special prizes, adding to the excitement of the tournament. Participation is open to individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds, encouraging diverse teams to come together and celebrate their love for table tennis.

Gather your teammates, assemble a diverse and creative team, and secure your spot in the TTBelongsToYou Teams Tournament now! Registration is free. So, act fast as team spots are limited to 16. Click here to fill in the tournament registration form.

Be part of the World Table Tennis Day 2024 celebration as we promote diversity and inclusion in our global table tennis family. – let's unite through the power of table tennis!