Tunis, Tunisia, is set to welcome some of the world’s top table tennis players from March 24th to 29th for the International Senior Table Tennis Tournament. The competition, featuring 128 athletes from 35 countries, promises a thrilling display of skill and athleticism at the Palais des Sports d’El Menzah. Ghazi Belkahia, the national technical director of the Tunisian Table Tennis Federation, announced the event on Sunday.
The tournament will encompass a full range of events, including men’s and women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. This diverse program ensures a captivating spectacle for fans of the sport, showcasing the versatility and strategic depth of table tennis.
Tunisian Squad Ready to Compete
The Tunisian national team will be well-represented at the tournament, with a strong roster of players eager to compete on home soil. The women’s team will feature Fadoua Garsi, Abir Haj Salah, Maram Zoghlami, Mariem Ibrahimi, Nour Ibrahimi, Balkis Souissi, and Alaa Abbassi. The men’s team will consist of Aboubaker Bouras, Wassim Essid, and Habib Ameur, with the potential for two additional players to be added to the lineup depending on the event schedule.
Supporting the Tunisian athletes will be national coaches Mourad Sta and Sofiène Beltaief, providing expert guidance and strategic direction throughout the competition. The coaching staff will play a crucial role in maximizing the team’s performance and navigating the challenges of an international tournament.
Balancing Tournament Play with International Training
The composition of the Tunisian team has been slightly adjusted due to a scheduling conflict with an international training camp in Havířov, Czech Republic, running from March 15th to 30th. This camp, organized by the International Table Tennis Federation in partnership with the International Olympic Committee, is a key component of Tunisia’s preparation for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.
Alaa Saïdi, Amir Essid, and Youssef Aïdelli will represent Tunisia at the training camp, accompanied by national coach Ghazi Belkahia. This strategic decision highlights the Tunisian Table Tennis Federation’s commitment to long-term development and preparing its athletes for future success on the global stage. It’s a delicate balance, prioritizing both immediate competition and future Olympic aspirations.
International Competition and Rising Stars
Beyond the Tunisian contingent, the tournament is expected to draw a number of highly-ranked players from around the world. The presence of these international stars will elevate the level of competition and provide a valuable opportunity for Tunisian athletes to test their skills against the best.
While specific names of internationally ranked players haven’t been released, the tournament organizers anticipate a strong field, attracting attention from table tennis enthusiasts globally. The Palais des Sports d’El Menzah is preparing to host a world-class event, showcasing the growing popularity of table tennis in Tunisia and the region.
The Tunisian Table Tennis Federation was established in 1968, and while it faces challenges in securing funding compared to nations like Egypt and Nigeria, it continues to foster talent and promote the sport within the country. According to an interview with Ghazi Belkahia in December 2024, players like Wassim Essid have the potential to reach the top 30 in the world with adequate investment and support. La Presse
For fans eager to follow the action, the Fédération Tunisienne de Tennis de Table’s official Facebook page (Fédération Tunisienne de Tennis de Table) will likely provide updates, schedules, and results throughout the tournament. Maintain an eye on their page for the latest news and information.
The International Senior Table Tennis Tournament in Tunis represents a significant event for the sport in Tunisia and a valuable opportunity to showcase the country’s growing table tennis prowess. With a strong Tunisian team, the presence of international stars, and a dedicated organizing committee, the tournament is poised to be a resounding success.
Following the tournament in Tunis, the focus will shift back to the training camp in Havířov, Czech Republic, as Alaa Saïdi, Amir Essid, and Youssef Aïdelli continue their preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. The Tunisian Table Tennis Federation is clearly laying the groundwork for future success, investing in both immediate competition and long-term development.
