On 23 April, table tennis communities around the world came together for World Table Tennis Day (WTTD) 2025, a global celebration of the sport that brings people together across continents, cultures, and communities. From informal local gatherings to national-level showcases, hundreds of events were held all over the world, highlighting the accessibility and universal appeal of table tennis.
WTTD is an annual initiative led by the ITTF Foundation that celebrates the joy, unity, and values of table tennis. Whether played recreationally or competitively, the sport has a unique power to connect people of all ages and backgrounds, breaking down barriers and building inclusive communities.
This year, a special celebration was held in Nairobi, Kenya, with ITTF President Petra Sörling in attendance. The event, hosted at Nairobi’s historic City Hall, featured an exciting mix of activities including mixed doubles tournaments, celebrity appearances, and cultural performances from local musicians and artists. Community members, sport leaders, and youth gathered for roundtable discussions exploring the role of sport in building inclusive societies.
“World Table Tennis Day is about celebrating the people behind the sport and the power of table tennis to bring communities together,” said Petra Sörling. “It was a true honour to witness that spirit in action here in Kenya.”
Championing Diversity and Inclusion Through Table Tennis
Each year, WTTD embraces a global theme to promote values that go beyond the game. For 2025, the focus was on “Diversity and Inclusion”, reinforcing table tennis as a sport that welcomes everyone regardless of background, ability, gender, or age.
This year’s theme was exemplified by the work of Vision Changers Kenya, a grassroots organisation using table tennis as a tool for empowerment in some of Nairobi’s most underserved communities. Over the past three years, Vision Changers has partnered with the ITTF Foundation through its Dream Building Fund, using sport to address social challenges such as youth crime, marginalisation, and lack of opportunity.
Their flagship initiative, “Hope kwa Vijana Mtaani” (“Hope for Youth in the Community”), has reached more than 880 young people through table tennis-based programmes focused on crime prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration. The organisation has established six table tennis facilities in informal settlements, creating safe spaces where sport offers hope and opportunity.
“On the social side, we must consider how we can open doors for the next generation,” said President Sörling. “Diversity and inclusion are not just themes for one day. They are values we must live by, every day.”
KTTA President Andrew Mudibo echoed that sentiment, expressing pride in Kenya’s role as host of the main WTTD celebration.
“I appreciate the journey that Vision Changers Kenya has undergone in transforming lives. It’s how you live in a community that determines your life. It’s a privilege and honor for Kenya to be the focal point of the WTTD celebration this year,” said Mudibo.
World Table Tennis Day 2025 not only celebrated the joy of the game but also spotlighted its potential to drive meaningful change. The day serves as a powerful reminder: table tennis has a power to support development and a better, more inclusive world.
