Registrations are now open for the ITTF World Masters Championships 2026, taking place from 5 to 12 June in Gangneung, Korea Republic. Following the unprecedented success of Rome 2024, which welcomed nearly 10,000 participants and became the largest table tennis event ever staged, this championship holds extraordinary significance as it coincides with the ITTF’s historic centenary year – marking an incredible 100 years since the organisation’s founding 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, becoming the first registered participant. The legendary figure brings exceptional pedigree to the championships as a 1988 Seoul Olympics gold medallist and the only Korean player to achieve a “full house” at the World Table Tennis Championships—winning titles in team events, singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. As the sole Korean member inducted into the ITTF Hall of Fame, her participation exemplifies the calibre of competitors the centenary championships will attract.
This once-in-a-lifetime celebration represents a full century of table tennis excellence, passion, and global unity. The Gangneung 2026 championships will honour 100 years of paddle-swinging history, legendary champions, and countless memories made around table tennis tables across the globe.
The championships will be held at Gangneung Oval (Main Hall) and Gangneung Ice Arena (Practice Hall), expecting over 4,000 participants from approximately 100 countries and regions. The tournament features six events: Men’s and Women’s Singles, Men’s and Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, open to anyone born in 1986 or earlier (aged 40 and above).
Registration fees 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 9 June.
Visual Identity Celebrating Heritage
The championships feature a beautifully designed emblem that harmonises table tennis, Gangneung, and nature. The design incorporates the sunrise over the East Sea, table tennis ball trajectories, and local pinecone patterns, creating a paddle-shaped symbol that captures both sporting dynamism and regional identity.
The beloved mascots Jangja and Gaksi, inspired by traditional Gangneung Danoje Festival characters, bring cultural heritage to the global stage. These cheerful characters, wielding table tennis paddles whilst wearing traditional-pattern uniforms, perfectly embody the fusion of local culture with international sporting spirit.
The event continues the inclusive legacy established in Rome, reinforcing the ITTF’s commitment to “Table Tennis for All, for Life” – a philosophy that has guided the sport for an entire century.
Gangneung, beautifully situated between the blue East Sea and majestic Mt. Seorak, offers participants a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern facilities. The city provides an ideal backdrop for this historic centenary celebration with its stunning coastal scenery, rich Korean culture, and warm hospitality.
Register now on the official website to be part of this landmark centenary celebration.
