The Sultanate of Oman will be represented by six international table tennis umpires at the upcoming ITTF World Masters Championship in Gangneung, South Korea, scheduled from June 7 to 12. The event, organised by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), is a significant global competition for veteran table tennis players, attracting over 3,000 participants across various age categories. It serves as both a competitive platform and a celebration of the sport, fostering camaraderie among athletes worldwide.
Oman's officiating team includes two Blue Badge International Umpires, Aisha al Saeedi and Ibrahim al Jassasi, alongside four international umpires: Al Nasr al Kindi, Thuraya al Wahaibi, Khalid al Alawi, and Omar al Jassasi. Their selection underscores the growing recognition of Omani table tennis officials on the international stage and reflects the confidence the ITTF places in their expertise.
Aisha al Saeedi, speaking ahead of the championship, expressed her enthusiasm about participating for the third consecutive time. She previously officiated at the World Masters events held in Oman in 2023 and Rome, Italy, in 2024. Al Saeedi described the tournament as unique, bringing together veteran players in an environment that balances friendly interaction with competitive spirit. She emphasized the event's role in promoting friendship, sportsmanship, and a shared passion for table tennis.
The 2026 edition in South Korea is set to introduce several technological advancements, including the use of tablets for match management and officiating tasks. Al Saeedi highlighted this development as a positive innovation, expected to enhance communication, streamline officiating processes, and improve overall efficiency during the championship.
This participation marks a continued milestone for Oman’s presence in international table tennis, reflecting the nation’s commitment to advancing both athletic and officiating standards on the global stage.