Yesterday, as the Paris Paralympic Games commenced, the spotlight was on the athletes honoured as flagbearers for their nations. Among them were 11 Para table tennis players who led their countries during the opening ceremony. This prestigious role was given to athletes such as Ghaliah Alanazi from Saudi Arabia, Coty Garrone from Argentina, and Álvaro Valera representing Spain. Their selection as flagbearers not only recognises their individual achievements but also highlights the significance of Para table tennis in the global Paralympic movement.

The Venue and Schedule

Today, 29 August, the South Paris Arena, specifically Hall 4, is hosting the Para table tennis competitions as the Games have officially begun. Fresh from its role in the Olympic table tennis events, the arena is now set for another round of high-calibre sport. Fans eager to catch the action can still purchase tickets through the official Paris 2024 website, though demand is expected to be high due to the excitement surrounding the Games.

The competition will continue for the next ten days. Each day features two sessions, with matches played to the best of five sets. In each set, the first player to reach 11 points with a margin of two points wins, ensuring every match remains a thrilling contest. The atmosphere in the arena is expected to be electric as athletes push the boundaries of their abilities in their quest for Paralympic glory.

Understanding the Game: Classification and Adaptations

Para table tennis is celebrated not only for the skill of its athletes but also for its inclusivity, which is facilitated through a detailed classification system. This system ensures that athletes compete on a level playing field, grouped according to their physical and intellectual abilities across 11 different classes.

Classes 1 to 5 are for athletes who compete in wheelchairs, with lower classification numbers indicating more significant challenges related to sitting balance and upper body function. Meanwhile, classes 6 to 10 are for standing players, with classification numbers reflecting varying degrees of mobility and control challenges. Class 11 is specifically for athletes with intellectual impairments who meet the criteria for Para table tennis.

In doubles competitions, the classification system takes on an additional layer, ensuring balanced competition by summing the classifications of both players on a team. The sport’s adaptability is further highlighted by the use of modified serves and custom equipment, such as specially designed grips or canes, which enable athletes to perform at their best.

Athletes to Watch

The Games will see a host of top-tier athletes vying for medals, with some already well-established in the sport and others emerging as new talents to watch. One of the most anticipated competitors is France's own Fabien Lamirault, who will be seeking to add to his collection of four Paralympic gold medals. Competing on home soil, Lamirault is expected to lead a strong French team that includes veteran Paralympians like Thu Kamkasomphou, making her sixth appearance, and rising stars such as Léa Ferney and Matéo Bohéas.

Internationally, the competition will be just as fierce. Najlah Al-Dayyen of Qatar and Kelly van Zon from the Netherlands, a three-time reigning Paralympic champion, are among the top athletes to keep an eye on. Other notable competitors include Feng Panfeng of China, a dominant force in Class 3, and Borislava Peric-Rankovic of Serbia, who has consistently been a medal contender in Class 4.

Adding to the narrative of experience and longevity in the sport, Jan Riapos from Slovakia and Jose Manuel Ruiz of Spain are set to make history with their eighth Paralympic appearances. This remarkable milestone is shared by Australia’s Daniela Di Toro, who has competed in both wheelchair tennis and Para table tennis over her distinguished career.

However, the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are not just about seasoned veterans. The event will also showcase the sport's future stars. Among the youngest competitors are Brazil’s Sophia Kelmer, China’s Jin Yucheng, and Chile’s Florencia Perez, all of whom are under 17 years old. At just 14, Bly Twomey from Great Britain will be the youngest participant in the Para table tennis events, embodying the promise and potential of the next generation.