The ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals 2023 is about to kick off, and the excitement is palpable as it is the first time in 84 years that it will be held on African soil. As fans look forward to the world’s best table tennis players arriving in Durban, the first team has finally arrived.  

On the evening of 12 May, the China team touched down at Durban International Airport and was greeted with a grand welcome from the hosts. Among their ranks are some of the sport’s biggest names, including the reigning Men’s and Women’s singles champions from the 2021 championships in Houston, Fan Zhendong and Wang Manyu. With many other star players in the team including Ma Long, their arrival in Durban has caused a buzz in the South African city. 

Upon arrival, the players were welcomed by fans and had interviews with the local media. As the anticipation intensifies with the championships drawing nearer, fans will be in for a special treat as they prepare to witness these table tennis stars in action. Ticket sales are still ongoing and can be purchased via the official ticketing website.  

In the coming days, other teams from around the world will be scheduled to arrive in Durban, including the South African team on 14 May, which prepared the event with an intensive training camp in India. The countdown to the much-anticipated table tennis extravaganza is finally winding down, with the marquee event of the year on the horizon. 

Against the backdrop of Durban’s vibrant African culture, the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals 2023 promises to be an unforgettable and fiercely competitive event. Fans worldwide can look forward to witnessing awe-inspiring performances as the tournament takes place from 20 to 28 May, with an unparalleled showcase of skill and passion that will captivate table tennis enthusiasts worldwide.