Table tennis is like chess in motion –
every ball is a new opportunity for strategy and creativity.
Jan-Ove Waldner

The Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports celebrates April 6 – International Table Tennis Day, a sport that connects people around the world and promotes inclusion, friendship and a healthy lifestyle. This day, established by the International Table Tennis Federation and recognized by the United Nations, carries the message “Table tennis for everyone, everywhere”. It is precisely this universality and accessibility that make it one of the most played sports in the world, because it can be played almost anywhere and in all life circumstances.
The Ministry is particularly proud of its employee Edna Šunjić, a gold medalist Olympian and passionate table tennis player. Edna is an active athlete and member of the European Special Olympics Athletes’ Council. In addition to table tennis, Edna is also a successful swimmer and skier. Her successes in international competitions, as well as the cheerfulness with which she approaches every training and match, testify that boundaries exist only in our minds. As a person with Down syndrome, Edna, through her sports results and engagement, shows that inclusion and equality are not just ideals, but the reality that sport can bring. Her medals and awards send a strong message to society that sport belongs to everyone.
By marking International Table Tennis Day, the Federal Ministry of Culture and Sports wants to emphasize that sport belongs to everyone – regardless of age, ability or circumstances. Table tennis, as a dynamic and accessible sport, develops concentration, reflexes and togetherness, and in our country brings together an increasing number of young people and recreational players.
We invite all citizens to join in marking this day, to take a racket in hand and feel the spirit of the game that unites people around the world.

Favourite sport?
Table tennis.
Edna Šunjić