Table Tennis Duo Inspires with Parkinson’s Journey to ITTF World Masters
In a remarkable display of resilience, the ITTF Foundation is proud to support two players with Parkinson’s disease as they prepare to compete at the upcoming ITTF World Masters Championships in Rome, Italy, kicking off tomorrow.
Agnes Jan, from Austria, and Steve Morley, from Scotland, have both harnessed the power of table tennis to combat the symptoms of their Parkinson’s diagnoses. Their participation in this prestigious event exemplifies the sport’s ability to break barriers and inspire those facing similar health challenges.
Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2018, Steve Morley found a renewed passion for table tennis in 2021 after a 40-year hiatus. By playing the sport five days a week, he has experienced significant improvements in his physical well-being and built valuable social connections.
Similarly, Agnes Jan, diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, has seen immediate benefits since joining her husband’s table tennis club in January 2023. Despite battling cancer and persistent pain, Agnes’ commitment to the sport has enabled her to manage her condition more effectively, reducing her need for medication.
“This year’s ITTF World Masters Championships marks the first time that players with Parkinson’s disease will compete in the prestigious event. This initiative continues the legacy of the 2023 World Table Tennis for Health Festival, showcasing the numerous health benefits of regular table tennis practice.”
The ITTF Foundation’s support for Agnes Jan and Steve Morley aligns with its goals of promoting diversity and inclusion within the global table tennis community. This endeavor also advances the ITTF Group’s focus for 2024 and 2025, contributing to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, particularly Target 3.4, which emphasizes good health and well-being.
With over 6,000 participants expected from July 7 to 14, the ITTF World Masters Championships Rome 2024 is set to become the largest table tennis gathering to date. The event will feature 11 age categories, with titles contested in men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, as well as the inclusion of para table tennis for the first time.
To support Agnes Jan and Steve Morley and learn more about how table tennis can improve the lives of people living with neurodegenerative diseases, visit the ITTF Foundation’s website.
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