Among the 6,100 players competing at the ITTF World Masters Championships in Rome 2024 is Yuet Yu Wa, a remarkable 99-year-old who has captured the attention of all participants. As the oldest player, her story is one of resilience and passion.
Yuet Yu Wa’s journey with table tennis began in her elementary school days. She enjoyed the game but set it aside for 85 years. It wasn’t until a family holiday in 2017, when a table tennis table rekindled her interest in the sport. Playing with her grandchildren, she rediscovered her love for the game and started practicing a couple of times a month.
Encouraged by her son John, Yuet Yu Wa set a goal to compete in the ITTF World Masters Championships. Now, coming from New York City and accompanied by 13 family members to support her and celebrate her upcoming 100th birthday in October, she is living that dream in Rome.
Yuet Yu Wa’s return to the sport and her participation in this World Championships underscores the inclusive and lifelong appeal of table tennis. In her opening matches, Yuet faced Marianne Blasberg from Germany, aged 90, and Ragnhild Lundberg from Sweden, aged 93. These matches truly highlighted ITTF’s vision – Table Tennis, for All, for Life – and the dedication of the players.
Join us in this epic sporting spectacle, where age is just a number and passion meets prowess. Stay tuned for updates on the dedicated event page and follow the action live on ITTF’s YouTube channel.
