Thimphu Open Table Tennis Championship 2026 Officially Underway

The Thimphu Open Table Tennis Championship 2026 officially began today. It will continue until 10th February 2026, bringing together players from different age groups and backgrounds for four days of exciting competition and friendly exchange.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Honourable Minister for Education and Skills Development, Lyonpo Yeezang De Thapa, along with guests from the 40th Bhutan–Japan Friendship Association and JICA volunteers. Their presence added special meaning to the event, especially in a year that marks an important chapter in the friendship between Bhutan and Japan.

Speaking at the opening, Mr. Toshihiro Tanaka, Vice President of the 40th Bhutan–Japan Friendship Association and a former Para Table Tennis coach, spoke about the close relationship shared by the two countries. He shared how sports, especially table tennis, help bring people together and encourage young people and communities to stay active and healthy.

The year 2026 marks 40 years of friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and Japan, and this championship is being held as part of those celebrations. Over the years, sport has played a simple but meaningful role in building connections between the two nations, with table tennis becoming one of the sports that many people from both countries share a love for.

Adding to the excitement of the championship, Mr. Yagi Katsuyoshi, currently ranked World No. 2 in Para Table Tennis (Class 7), attended the opening ceremony and played an engaging exhibition match with Bhutanese player Mr. Leki Dorji, inspiring players through his skill and determination. He is joined by Mr. Toshihiro Tanaka, a long-time supporter of table tennis and para sports development in Bhutan.

This year’s championship includes five categories: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Lucky Doubles, Veteran Singles, and Para Singles. A total of 28 players are competing in the Men’s Singles, 11 in the Women’s Singles, 16 pairs in Lucky Doubles, 17 players in the Veteran category, and 5 players in the Para category, reflecting growing interest and participation in the sport.

Winners of the Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, and Lucky Doubles events will receive Nu. 10,000, while runners-up will be awarded Nu. 7,000. In the Para Singles and Veteran Singles categories, winners will receive Nu. 5,000, with Nu. 2,500 awarded to runners-up.

The Thimphu Open Table Tennis Championship 2026 is not just about competition. It is also a chance for players, supporters, and guests to come together, celebrate friendship, and enjoy the shared spirit of sport that continues to connect Bhutan and Japan after 40 years.