New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday inaugurated the 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026 at Thyagraj Stadium, officially marking the beginning of the prestigious international sporting event.
Welcoming players, officials and delegations from Commonwealth nations, the Chief Minister extended her best wishes for the successful conduct of the championship and highlighted Delhi’s pride in hosting a major global sporting event.
The tournament is being held from July 27 to August 2, 2026, with participation from 25 Commonwealth member countries.
Delhi Hosts Prestigious Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026
During the opening ceremony, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled the official championship trophy and formally declared the event open.
The inauguration ceremony also featured the athletes’ oath, where players pledged to maintain:
- Sportsmanship.
- Fair play.
- Discipline.
- Respect for fellow competitors.
The Chief Minister marked the official start of the tournament by playing a symbolic first stroke with a table tennis racket.
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Sports Build Global Friendship and Cultural Exchange
Addressing the gathering, CM Rekha Gupta said hosting such an international championship was a matter of pride for Delhi.
She said sports are not limited to competition but act as a bridge connecting nations, cultures and societies. According to her, international sporting events encourage young people to pursue excellence while promoting discipline, dedication and healthy competition.
She also highlighted that such events strengthen global friendship and cultural exchange among participating countries.
25 Commonwealth Countries Participate in Championship
The 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2026 has attracted players from 25 countries, including:
- India
- Australia
- Bangladesh
- Barbados
- Botswana
- Canada
- Cyprus
- England
- Falkland Islands
- Jamaica
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Malaysia
- Maldives
- Namibia
- New Zealand
- Nigeria
- Northern Ireland
- Scotland
- Singapore
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Wales
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
The championship provides an international platform for athletes to compete at the highest level and promote the growth of table tennis across Commonwealth nations.
Cultural Performances Showcase India’s Heritage
The opening ceremony began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and a rendition of Vande Mataram.
Players and international delegations were welcomed through traditional Indian celebrations, followed by the Parade of Nations, where teams marched with their national flags.
Cultural performances including:
- Colour of India.
- Shiv Tandav.
- Sitar-symphony jugalbandi.
showcased India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity to athletes and guests from around the world.
Delhi Government Focuses on Sports Infrastructure Development
CM Rekha Gupta said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has achieved significant progress in the sports sector.
She highlighted the development of:
- World-class sports infrastructure.
- Modern athlete facilities.
- Better opportunities for sportspersons.
- India’s growing ability to host international sporting events.
She added that the Delhi Government is working towards creating a stronger sporting culture in the capital and supporting young athletes through improved facilities and training opportunities.
Ashish Sood Highlights Role of Sports in Youth Development
Delhi Education and Sports Minister Ashish Sood said the championship is not only a platform for international competition but also an opportunity to strengthen friendship, cooperation and sportsmanship among Commonwealth countries.
He said education and sports complement each other, with sports teaching important life skills such as:
- Teamwork.
- Leadership.
- Patience.
- Discipline.
- Perseverance.
- Respect.
He added that the Delhi Government is focusing not only on building sports infrastructure but also on identifying talent, supporting athletes and creating new opportunities for young players.
International Delegates Attend Opening Ceremony
The inauguration event was attended by several dignitaries, including:
- Ashish Sood, Delhi Education and Sports Minister.
- Vivek Kohli, President of Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation.
- Meghna Ahlawat, President of Table Tennis Federation of India.
- Representatives from Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation and Table Tennis Federation of India.
- International delegates, players and distinguished guests.
Free Entry for Spectators During Championship
Entry for spectators has been kept completely free for the tournament, allowing sports enthusiasts in Delhi to watch international table tennis action.
The championship aims to promote sporting excellence while strengthening cooperation, friendship and cultural connections among Commonwealth nations.
CM Rekha Gupta encouraged Delhi residents to attend the championship and support athletes participating from different countries.
