Registrations are now open to the ITTF World Masters Championships 2026, which take place from 5 to 12 June in Gangneung, Korea Republic. After the unprecedented success of Rome 2024, which welcomed nearly 10,000 participants and the largest table tennis event ever was organized, this championship has an extraordinary significance because it coincides with the historical century of the ITTF – an incredible 100 years since the founding of the organization in 1926.
Legendary first participant
The tournament has received a remarkable boost with Hyun Jung-HWA, Senior Vice President of the Korea Table Tennis Association, became the first registered participant. The legendary figure brings an exceptional pedigree to the championships as an Olympian and the only Korean player who achieved a “Grand Slam” on the world table tennis championships – winning titles in team events, singles, Doubles and mixed doubles. While the only Korean member was admitted to the ITTF Hall of Fame, her participation is an example of the caliber of competitors who will attract the Centenary Championships.
This one -off celebration represents a full century of table tennis excellence, passion and global unity. The Gangneung 2026 championships will honor 100 years of paddle-swing history, legendary champions and countless memories that have been made around table tennis tables around the world.
The championships will be held in Gangneung Oval (Main Hall) and Gangneung Ice Arena (exercise room), expecting more than 4,000 participants from around 100 countries and regions. The tournament contains six events: men’s and ladies singles, men’s and women’s doubles and mixed doubles, open to everyone born in 1986 or earlier (40 years and older).
Registration costs offer early bird savings: players can register for 210 USD (accompanying persons 90 USD) during the early registration period from 24 July to 31 December 2025. Regular registration from 1 January to 31 March 2026 costs 270 USD for players (100 USD for accompanying persons). The tournament schedule includes registration on 5-6 June, competition days on 7-8 and 10-12 June, with a rest day on June 9.
Visual identity to celebrate heritage
The championships have a beautifully designed emblem that harmonizes table tennis, gangneung and nature. The design includes the sunrise over the Baltic Sea, table tennis ball processes and local lover patterns, creating a paddle -shaped symbol that records both sporting dynamics and regional identity.
The beloved Mascottes Jangja and Gaksi, inspired by traditional Gangneung Danoje Festival characters, bring cultural heritage to the world stage. These cheerful characters, who use tennis peddels, use traditional patterns, perfectly embody the merger of local culture with international sports spirit.
The event continues the inclusive inheritance that is located in Rome, which strengthens the ITTF’s dedication at “Table tennis for everyone, for life” – a philosophy that the sport has led for a whole century.
Gangneung, beautifully situated between the Blue Baltic Sea and Majestic Mt. Seorak, offers participants a perfect mix of natural beauty and modern facilities. The city offers an ideal background for this historic centenary with its beautiful coastal landscape, rich Korean culture and warm hospitality.
Register now on the Official website To be part of this historical centenary.
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