ETTU | 17 Oct 2024

ETTU President MOURA: A Vision for Growth, Innovation, and Inclusivity in European Table Tennis

Pedro MOURA has experienced table tennis from every angle, moving through all phases of the sport. Starting as a player representing Portugal in several European and World Championships, his journey transitioned into coaching and managing, ultimately leading him to the presidency of Portugal's Table Tennis Association in 2012. Over the years, MOURA took on increasing responsibility within the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU), serving as Vice President and then Acting President before being officially elected as ETTU President in 2024. With a wealth of experience across all levels, MOURA now embarks on a new chapter in his distinguished career, leading European table tennis into its next era.

Congratulations on your election as the ETTU President. Could you start by sharing what inspired your candidacy for the position?

“My candidacy for the presidency of the European Table Tennis Union was driven by my deep love for our sport and a strong commitment to building a bright future for European table tennis. This sport has been part of my life since I was 10 years old. I started as a player, represented the Portuguese national team in several European and World Championships, and eventually finished my playing career at the 1995 WTTC in Tianjin. Ironically, I was eliminated by Mr. Zoran Primorac, who is here with us today!”President MOURA continued: “From there, my journey in table tennis evolved. I coached and managed at Sporting Clube de Portugal’s table tennis department, and in 2012, I was elected president of the Portuguese Table Tennis Association. Under my leadership, Portugal organized nearly all major ETTU and ITTF events, except for the World Championships.

President MOURA had a long history with table tennis, not only as a player but also as an administrator. Could you share a bit more about your leadership roles before becoming President?

“Yes, in 2016, I was elected as ETTU Vice President, and in 2020, I was chosen as ETTU Deputy President. Things took an unexpected turn in March 2022 when I became Acting President after the unfortunate situation that led to Igor LEVITIN's self-suspension of his mandate, followed by Vladimir SAMSONOV and Polina MIKHAILOVA stepping down from their roles. ETTU was left in a very challenging political situation. It wasn’t easy, but in August 2022, during the Congress in Munich, we decided to start focusing on the future of ETTU. I worked with the Executive Board to draft a Strategic Plan and an Implementation Plan, so all member associations could follow our work. Additionally, we made the decision to reinvest the financial results from 2021 and 2022 back into the sport while also increasing ETTU’s reserves, preparing for any future crises, whether it’s another pandemic or, unfortunately, even a war.

You’ve spoken about your vision for European table tennis. What are the key pillars of your presidency?

“My candidacy is centered on three key pillars: growth, innovation, and inclusivity. Growth is not only about expanding our competitions but also improving the quality and visibility of the sport. We’ve already made significant progress with TV production quality and broader broadcast deals. For example, at the European Team Championships in Malmo, we had more than 20 countries broadcasting the event. Here in Linz, we have contracts in place for close to 50 countries, spanning from China to the USA. But I believe we can go even further, especially by modernizing competition formats like we did with the Men’s Champions League Final 4.”

Innovation seems to be another key focus of yours. How do you plan to integrate it further into ETTU’s operations?

“Innovation is essential. Our partnerships with companies like Sportradar and Stupa Sports Analytics have allowed us to integrate cutting-edge technology into ETTU’s operations. This is only the beginning. I want to continue pushing these boundaries by expanding our digital presence, enhancing live broadcasts, and utilizing real-time data and analytics to engage with fans, players, and stakeholders more effectively.”

You’ve also placed significant emphasis on inclusivity. How do you plan to promote diversity in table tennis?

“Inclusivity is crucial to our vision. Table tennis must be a sport where everyone feels welcome, regardless of age, gender, or background. I’m committed to promoting diversity at all levels of the game. This includes supporting youth programs, creating opportunities for the next generation of champions, and ensuring greater representation of women and underrepresented groups in leadership, coaching, and on the playing field.”

Strong governance and financial stability were also points you highlighted. How do you plan to maintain that?

“Strong governance is fundamental to supporting growth, innovation, and inclusivity. Transparency, integrity, and accountability are core principles that will guide my leadership. We’ve already built a solid foundation with our Strategic Plan, and I pledge to continue ensuring that the ETTU operates with these values, maintaining regular communication with all member associations. We want to remain aligned with their needs and aspirations.”

You’ve mentioned the importance of maintaining close relations with the ITTF. How do you see the future of that relationship?

“Our relationship with the ITTF is essential for the future of table tennis. We will continue cooperating with the International Federation while protecting the interests of European table tennis. This is crucial, as we demonstrated recently in the case of the Olympic Games seeding. I believe we can achieve a balance—working closely with the ITTF without losing our autonomy.”

Finally, what message do you have for the member associations and the European table tennis community?

“I will remain a responsive and approachable leader. I’m committed to listening to your concerns and representing your interests. You, the members of the European Table Tennis Union, are the lifeblood of our sport. Together, we can continue growing and evolving European table tennis for generations to come.”

Photo: Gabriel KOSCHER