By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: The 22nd Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships 2026 concluded with a grand closing ceremony at Thyagraj Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday, with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presiding over the event as Chief Guest and Education & Sports Minister Ashish Sood attending as Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Sood said the successful hosting of the prestigious international championship reflected the Delhi Government’s commitment to promoting world-class sporting events under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. He said the tournament highlighted the capital’s organisational capabilities while inspiring thousands of students and young athletes to pursue excellence in sports.
Congratulating the Indian contingent for securing gold medals in both the men’s and women’s team events, the minister praised the athletes for bringing laurels to the country. He also commended the discipline, sportsmanship and high standards displayed by players from participating nations, including Malaysia, Singapore, England and Australia.
The championship witnessed participation from athletes representing 25 Commonwealth nations, with Sood describing the event as a celebration of friendship, mutual respect and global unity through sport. He said the tournament demonstrated how sporting competition transcends geographical boundaries and strengthens international goodwill.
Highlighting the government’s long-term vision, Sood said the Delhi Government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and with the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to establish Delhi as the Sports Capital of India alongside its role as the nation’s political capital. He added that hosting international competitions offers young athletes invaluable exposure to world-class talent and encourages greater sporting participation.
The minister also thanked the Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation, the Table Tennis Federation of India, the organising committee, officials, coaches, volunteers and participating nations for ensuring the successful conduct of the championship, expressing confidence that its legacy would further strengthen India’s sporting ecosystem and international ambitions.
