Seven-time Champions League Men winners Borussia Düsseldorf made a significant stride toward the Final Four with a stunning victory over Alliance Nîmes/Montpellier. In a matchup featuring the formidable Félix and Alexis LEBRUN, ranked World No. 4 and No. 14 respectively, last year’s runners-up delivered an upset by sweeping the French team in straight games in the quarterfinal’s opening leg in France. Anton KÄLLBERG set the tone by overcoming Félix LEBRUN in a thrilling five-game match, while Dang QIU defeated Alexis LEBRUN in four games. Timo BOLL, making his final competitive appearance abroad, sealed the victory with a narrow win against Esteban DORR. “Great performance from all of us. We knew how difficult it would be. Montpellier has a very strong team with the LEBRUN brothers and DORR,” said Dang QIU. “Both Anton and Timo’s matches were very important. They won by narrow margins, and we know that if we had been forced to play a fourth match, anything could have happened. The duel could have easily finished 3-2 for the French team.” The return leg is scheduled for February 16th, with the winner of the two-leg encounter advancing to the Final Four in Saarbrücken. Polish KS DARTOM BOGORIA Grodzisk Mazowiecki recorded fast straight matches victory over last year’s Final 4 semi finalists, Austria’s SolexConsult TTC Wiener Neustadt. Ivor BAN was streched to full distance against Milosz REDZIMSKI and Amirezza ABBASI MONJEZI also forced Panagiotis GIONIS to go all five games, but both failed to close the match. Marek BADOWSKI sealed the match with win over Frane KOJIC. “It is very good that we recorded 3-0 victory against very good team in away match. We played in the small venue and in the heated atmosfere and we gave our best. However we are aware that second leg will not be easy. We won two matches 3-2 after we were down 1-2. The advantage is on our side, we need only two points to reach the Final 4, so fe had to staye focused,” said GIONIS. Champions League Men quarterfinal SolexConsult TTC Wiener Neustadt – KS DARTOM BOGORIA Grodzisk Mazowiecki 0-3 Alliance Nîmes/Montpellier – Borussia Düsseldorf 0-3
Froschberg LINZ AG Stands Firm Under Pressure to Dominate SAINT-QUENTIN TT
In the opening leg of the Champions League Women quarterfinal, Froschberg LINZ AG demonstrated resilience and dominance, overwhelming SAINT-QUENTIN TT with a commanding performance. The Austrian team, unbeaten in the previous phase, maintained their winning streak. Suthasini SAWETTABUT, Britt EERLAND, and Ivana MALOBABIC proved too strong for Linda BERGSTRÖM, Polina MIKHAILOVA, and Camille LUTZ, securing a decisive victory. “I will say this win has left us flabbergasted. SAINT-QUENTIN is a very strong team with special players. They have a system where you never know how they’ll play or what will happen. But we also have a player with a defensive style, so we prepared well,” said Britt EERLAND. “To be honest, it’s the quarterfinal of the Champions League, and we were well aware that anything could happen. We could only play at our best and hope for the best. Our mindset was: let’s help each other and give it our all. I felt a great deal of pressure in my match, but knowing the whole team was fighting helped me. Matches like these aren’t so much about tactics; they’re about who performs better under pressure. We’re far from finished, and we’ll give our best in Linz.” The return leg will be played on February 15th. Champions League Women quarterfinal SAINT-QUENTIN TT – Froschberg LINZ AG 0-3
ASC Grünwettersbach’s Team Effort Secures Victory Over SPG Felbermayr Wels
In the Europe Cup Men Round of 16, SPG Felbermayr Wels suffered a home defeat in the opening leg against ASC Grünwettersbach, despite a strong performance from Andreas LEVENKO. LEVENKO gave the hosts a dream start by defeating Leo DE NODREST and later added a second win against Ricardo WALTHER. However, his efforts were not enough, as Grünwettersbach showed their depth and strength as a team. DE NODREST, WALTHER, and Guilherme TEODORO each contributed a victory, underlining Grünwettersbach’s balanced team play and collective performance. “We’re really happy about the effort the team has put in today, but it was only the first part, and we will fight until the end to secure our place in the next round,” said Leo DE NODREST after the match. The return leg is scheduled for February 16th. SPG Felbermayr Wels – ASC Grünwettersbach 2-3
CTM Mirandela Recorded Victory Over HB Ostrov
Portugal’s CTM Mirandela triumphed over Czech club HB Ostrov in the opening leg of the Europe Cup Women’s Round of 16. Annamaria ERDELYI delivered two wins against Veronika POLAKOVA and Zdena BLASKOVA. Mariana SANTA COMBA added the third point with a hard-fought five-game victory over Jana VASENDOVA. BLASKOVA secured the sole point for HB Ostrov by defeating Ines MATOS. “They came without their top player, Tatiana KUKULKOVA, which made our task much easier. We seized the opportunity to secure an advantage before the return leg in Czechia,” said ERDELYI. “I was very confident and played well. It’s great that Mariana managed to beat VASENDOVA. She performed at a high level.” The return leg is scheduled for February 16th. Europe Cup Women’s Round of 16 CTM Mirandela – HB Ostrov z.s. 3-1
Museo de la Almendra Francisco Morales Dominates in Round of 16 Opener
Last year’s Europe Cup Women runners-up, Museo de la Almendra Francisco Morales, secured a victory in the opening leg of the Round of 16. Their Spanish rivals, Universidad de Burgos – RM Terán, failed to pose a significant challenge in the all-Spanish showdown. Meng JIAQI, Margarita FETUKHINA, and Patricia SANTOS each delivered dominant performances, defeating María BERZOSA, Gabriela FEHER, and María MÉNDEZ in straight matches, all concluding in straight games. “I think it was easier than we expected, but it was a great result for us to win 3-0 and gain the advantage for the second leg. We had a very supportive fans during the home match, with many students coming to cheer for us. We really enjoyed it, fought as a team, and everyone played well. Hopefully, we can carry this momentum into the next match,”said Meng JIAQI. The return leg is scheduled for February 15. Museo de la Almendra Francisco Morales – UNIVERSIDAD DE BURGOS – RM TERAN 3-0
In Sarajevo: 12 Places on Offer for the 2025 European Teams Championships Final Stage
For the third year in a row, Sarajevo will host an ETTU event. Following the Under 21 European Championships in 2023, the Europe Youth Series tournament, and the European Olympic Singles Qualification in 2024, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina will welcome competitors for the 2025 European Teams Championships (ETC) Stage 1. The ETC will take place from January 21 to 25, bringing together teams vying for a spot in the Final Stage, scheduled from October 12 to 19 in Zadar, Croatia. A total of 12 teams will secure their tickets to Croatia, with six teams qualifying from both the men’s and women’s events. “We look forward to be back at the beautiful Sarajevo for another ETTU event, this time the first edition of the Stage 1 of European Team Championships, as well as for the ETTU Working Week, the moment Executive Board meets all the Committees Chairs and the ETTU staff, having the chance to discuss the plans and goals for the 2025, a very important year not only for ETTU but also for the sport at the global stage,” stated ETTU President Pedro MOURA.Key members of the LOC, including Competition Director Anes ALIĆ, General Secretary Amela MUJEZINOVIĆ, and President Mirsad PAJEVIĆ, emphasized in their joint statement: “All activities are in the final stages and fully aligned with ETTU regulations, directives, and procedures for organizing the Stage 1 of the European Teams Championships. We have made every effort to ensure that all participating teams have top-notch conditions for competition, accommodation, meals, and other amenities offered by the Hills Hotel complex. We take this opportunity to thank ETTU and their partners, Nittaku and Donic, for sponsoring the necessary table tennis equipment for the championship. In addition to the participating teams, we look forward to welcoming the ETTU Executive Board, Secretariat staff, and Chairs of the ETTU Committees. This will be an opportunity to further strengthen and expand our successful collaboration through the participation of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Table Tennis Federation in future projects and the organization of sporting events.” The last European Teams Championships Final Stage was held in Malmö in 2023, with Sweden’s men’s team and Germany’s women’s team holding the titles. Teams Competing in Sarajevo Women’s Teams: Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, England, Finland, Greece, Greenland, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Scotland, Slovenia, Switzerland. Men’s Teams: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Greenland, Iceland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, San Marino, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland, Türkiye, and Wales.
Clash of Titans in Vrsar
The inaugural Stone Racket of Istria Veterans’ Tournament will be held in Vrsar from March 5 to 9, offering a unique event for players aged 40 and older. Organized by the Maistra Hospitality Group in collaboration with the Vrsar Tourist Board, the Municipality of Vrsar, Grand Tour agency, and TTC Vrsar, the tournament aims to promote table tennis and show the beauty of the Istrian region while providing participants with an engaging program beyond the competitive matches. A major highlight of the event will be an exhibition match featuring table tennis legends, ETTU Vice President Zoran PRIMORAC of Croatia and Jörgen PERSSON of Sweden. Both players, who dominated the sport during their careers and have collectively won over 60 medals at major competitions, are excited to reunite in Vrsar. “This is a commendable initiative by Maistra to promote table tennis in such a special way,” said PRIMORAC. “When I invited Jörgen, he was delighted and immediately accepted. He fell in love with Vrsar and Istria during his training camp here before the Paris Olympics. He was amazed by the place and its conditions.” PERSSON’S connection to Vrsar is unsurprising, given the region’s renowned hospitality and breathtaking landscapes. “I’m personally looking forward to the reunion,” PRIMORAC added. “Jörgen is one of the greatest players of all time – a World and European champion, my friend, and a fierce competitor during our careers. Playing against him will be a pleasure, and we aim to entertain the audience and our fellow veterans. Of course, people shouldn’t expect a replay of the Olympic quarterfinals in Beijing, haha, but I promise it will be great fun.” PRIMORAC also emphasized PERSSON’S exceptional career achievements, noting his status as a seven-time Olympian and one of Sweden’s most decorated athletes. Both legends remain active in the sport, with PRIMORAC serving as President of the Croatian Table Tennis Association and PERSSON recently coaching the Swedish national team. “Physically, I might be in slightly better shape, but Jörgen has been more involved in the game as a coach of the Swedish national team. Still, we Croatians are masters of improvisation – I’ll try to outsmart him, haha,” joked PRIMORAC. “The important thing is to have fun, create an enjoyable spectacle, and promote the tournament, Istria, and Croatia. I hope this tournament becomes a tradition.” The event promises a memorable experience for spectators, offering the chance to witness two icons of the sport in action. For more information, visit www.stoneracketistria.com or follow the event on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stoneracketistria.
1. FC Saarbrücken Tischtennis e.V. Star Trio Shines in Champions League Quarterfinal Triumph Over Hennebont
1. FC Saarbrücken Tischtennis e.V. made a strong start in the Champions League Men quarterfinals with a 3-0 victory over GV Hennebont TTF in France. The reigning champions took a significant step toward the Final 4, which will be held at the Saarlandhalle in Saarbrücken on May 31 and June 1, 2025. Led by World No. 9 Truls MÖREGÅRDH, the visitors showed no mercy in their duel against the French club. After missing Darko JORGIĆ in the first leg of the Round of 16 and Patrick FRANZISKA in the second leg against HB Ostrov z.s., the German champions arrived in France with their strongest lineup. It also marked the first time this season that MÖREGÅRDH was listed in the team for a Champions League Men match. Patrick FRANZISKA opened the tie with a victory over Vladimir SIDORENKO, followed by Truls MÖREGÅRDH, who widened the gap with a win against Lev KATSMAN. Darko JORGIĆ then sealed the clash with a win over Iulian CHIRIȚA. “I am very happy with the match tonight. We showed some great table tennis, and I received fantastic support from the team. It’s a great joy to play for such an incredible club like 1. FC Saarbrücken, a two-time Champions League winner. Winning the opening leg 3-0, with a 9-1 games scoreline, is just the perfect way to start,” said Truls MÖREGÅRDH. In previous Round GV HENNEBONT TTF beat UKS Dojlidy Białystok. The return leg is scheduled for the 16th February. GV HENNEBONT TTF- 1 FC Saarbrücken Tischtennis e.V. 0-3
Champions League Men is heating up
The Champions League Men is heating up as the competition reaches the quarterfinal stage. With powerhouse clubs, rising stars, and thrilling round of 16 clashes behind us, the quarterfinals promise to deliver more high-intensity table tennis matches. This is the last step before the Final 4 will be played in the Saarlandhalle of Saarbrücken on May 31 and June 1, 2025. Watch all the matches live on ETTU TV.Let’s take a closer look at the matchups and what to expect from each tie.GV Hennebont TT (FRA)vs. 1 FC Saarbrücken TT (GER)• First Leg: 15.01.2025, Hennebont• Second Leg: 16.02.2025, SaarbrückenFrench GV Hennebont TT, led by rising stars Vladimir SIDORENKO, Lev KATSMAN, and Iulian CHIRITA, secured their quarterfinal spot with dominant performances against UKS Dojlidy Białystok of Poland. Hennebont’s home advantage in the first leg will be crucial as they face reigning champions 1 FC Saarbrücken TT.Saarbrücken, featuring World No. 9 Truls MÖREGÅRDH and a strong supporting cast led by Patrick FRANZISKA and Darko JORGIC, will be a formidable opponent. The German side’s depth and experience make them favorites, but Hennebont’s youthful energy and home support could produce an upset.Saarbrücken’s experience and depth give them a slight edge, but Hennebont’s home crowd could make the first leg interesting.KS Global PharmaOrlicz 1924 Suchedniow (POL) vs. K.S. Dekorglass Działdowo (POL)• First Leg: 19.01.2025, Suchedniow• Second Leg: 15.02.2025, DziałdowoA Polish derby between KS Global Pharma Orlicz 1924 and K.S.Dekorglass Działdowo promises to be a fiercely contested tie. Orlicz advanced after a nail-biting aggregate win over A.S Pontoise-Cergy TT, while Dekorglass edged out Postsportverein Mühlhausen in dramatic fashion, thanks to the Golden Match rule.Dekorglass’s Jonathan GROTH and Jakub DYJAS have shown they can deliver under pressure. Orlicz, on the other hand, will rely on Robert FLORAS and Deni KOZUL to carry the team through.Dekorglass has the edge with their experience in close matches, but the derby atmosphere could level the playing field.KS Dartom Bogoria Grodzisk Mazowiecki (POL) vs. Solex-Consult Wiener Neustadt (AUT)• First Leg: 14.02.2025, Grodzisk Mazowiecki• Second Leg: 17.01.2025, Wiener NeustadtKS Dartom Bogoria Grodzisk Mazowiecki secured theirquarterfinal spot with a comeback win over SF SKK EL NINO PRAHA. Panagiotis GIONIS and Takuya JIN led the charge for the Polish side, showing their resilience.Solex-Consult Wiener Neustadt, surprising semifinalists last season, are looking to repeat their success. Amirezza Abbasi MONJEZI has been a key player, with his unique style posing problems for opponents.Bogoria’s depth and home-court advantage give them a slight upper hand, but Wiener Neustadt’s unpredictability makes them dangerous.Alliance Nîmes/Montpellier (FRA) vs. Borussia Düsseldorf (GER)First Leg: 17.01.2025, MontpellierSecond Leg: 16.02.2025, DüsseldorfThis tie is arguably the most anticipated of the quarterfinals. Alliance Nîmes/Montpellier, featuring the dynamic LEBRUN brothers, Felix and Alexis, have been in sensational form. Their dominance in the Round of 16 against SPG Felbermayr Wels demonstrated their potential to go all the way.However, standing in their way is Borussia Düsseldorf, Europe’s most successful club. With Timo BOLL, Dang QIU, Anton KALLBERG leading the charge, Düsseldorf will be tough to beat, especially at the ARAG CenterCourt.While the LEBRUN brothers have been exceptional, Borussia Düsseldorf’s experience and depth may prove too much over two legs.The Champions League Men quarterfinals are set to be a thrilling stage of the competition. With powerhouse clubs and rising stars, the battle for a place in the Final 4 is well underway.
Champions League Women quarterfinals are set to deliver exciting matches
Stage 2 of the Champions League Women has concluded, and the quarterfinals are set to deliver exciting matches. Watch all the matches live on ETTU TV. Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming quarterfinal clashes.ASD Quattro Mori(ITA) vs. KTS Enea Siarkopol Tarnobrzeg (POL)• First Leg: 19.01.2025, Cagliari• Second Leg: 14.02.2025, TarnobrzegASD Quattro Mori will face a daunting task against four-time Champions League winners KTS Enea Siarkopol Tarnobrzeg. The Italian side, led by Liemei HU, will need a near-perfect performance to overcome the Polish powerhouse.Tarnobrzeg enters the quarterfinals with a flawless record from the group stage. With stars like Fu YU, Satsuki ODO and Elizabeta SAMARA leading the charge, they are the favorites to advance to the semifinals.UCAM Cartagena TM (ESP) vs. ttc berlin eastside (GER)• First Leg: 19.01.2025, Cartagena• Second Leg: 14.02.2025, BerlinUCAM Cartagena TM secured their quarterfinal spot after a dominant performance in Group D. Led by Maria XIAO and Sofia-Xuan ZHANG, the Spanish side will be aiming to upset five-time Champions League winners TTC Berlin eastside.Berlin rested their top stars during their final group match but remains one of the most formidable teams in the competition. Nina MITTELHAM, Xiaona SHAN, Sabina SURJAN and the upcoming young star, Josi Neumann provide the German side with unmatched depth.Saint-Quentin TT (FRA) vs. Linz AG Froschberg (AUT)• First Leg: 17.01.2025, Saint Quentin• Second Leg: 15.02.2025, LinzFrench Saint-Quentin TT advanced to the quarterfinals as runners-up in Group A. Camille LUTZ and Linda BERGSTRÖM have been key players for theFrench side, delivering crucial victories to secure their spot in the knockout stage.Austria’s Linz AG Froschberg topped Group C with an unbeaten record. Suthasini SAWETTABUT, Ivana MALOBABIC, and Britt EERLAND have been in excellent form, making them one of the most consistent teams this season.Metz TT (FRA) vs. Etival ASRTT (FRA)• First Leg: 19.01.2025, Metz• Second Leg: 28.02.2025, EtivalA thrilling all-French quarterfinal pits Metz TT againstEtival ASRTT. Metzsecured their quarterfinal spot with two wins in the group stage, while Etivalremained unbeaten in Group D, led by players like Christina KALLBERG and JieniSHAO.Both teams know each other well, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to this tie. The outcome could go either way, making it one of the most anticipated quarterfinal matchups.The Champions League Women quarterfinals are shaping up to be an intense stage of the competition. With powerhouse clubs and star players on display, the road to the semifinals promises excitement and drama. Will the reigning champions maintain their dominance, or will we see surprises in the knockout phase?
