The first-ever VR Table Tennis World-Title Event is set to take place in 2024, thanks to a historic announcement made by the Executive Board of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
The ITTF is poised to change table tennis by embracing digital transformation and recognising the changing sports landscape hence introducing a novel experience that surpasses conventional limits.
In order to work together to produce an incredible VR Table Tennis event in the second half of 2024, the ITTF will now actively seek partners. With an eye on possible inclusion in the International Olympic Committee’s investigation into Olympic Esports Games, this project is in line with the ITTF’s dedication to leading the Olympic Movement.
When VR table tennis was showcased as an exhibition sport at the Olympic Esports Week in Singapore in June 2023, it became well-known throughout the world. This achievement confirmed the sport’s rising stature in the competitive gaming scene and hinted at its eventual rise to a worldwide level.
ITTF President and IOC Member Petra Sörling made the following statement in response to this news: “VR Table Tennis represents an integral part of the ITTF’s mission to elevate the profile of table tennis worldwide.”
“We are reshaping table tennis and elevating it to new heights by embracing Esports and ongoing innovation”.
“We are motivated to accelerate our efforts to make sure we are equipped and experienced to make a significant contribution to future Esports events by the success of the Olympic Esports Series and the vision of the Olympic Esports Games,” President Sörling continued.
On December 6-7, 2023, in Lausanne, Switzerland, the ITTF Executive Board met and formally accepted this historic decision. International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach extended a hearty welcome to ITTF as they were invited to the Olympic House in Lausanne, Switzerland.
ITTF President and IOC Member Petra Sörling led the trip which was also comprised of senior staff, members of the Executive Board, ITTF Athletes Commission Chairs, and IOC Member Ryu Seungmin. An important step has been taken in strengthening the existing collaboration between the ITTF and the IOC with this fruitful dialogue.
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