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Press Release

Table Tennis Standouts Secure Olympic Qualification: Kanak Jha and Hwan Bae Headed to Paris Games

Burlingame, CA, May 17th, 2024 – The table tennis world is abuzz with excitement as two remarkable athletes, Kanak Jha and Hwan Bae, have secured their spots in the highly anticipated Paris Olympic Games, marking a significant milestone in their illustrious careers.

Representing both the USA and 888 Table Tennis Center, Kanak Jha is poised to make his mark on the Olympic stage for the third time. His journey to Olympic qualification is a testament to his unwavering dedication. Having previously competed in the Rio and Tokyo Olympics, Jha’s experience and expertise make him a formidable contender as he seeks to achieve his Olympic dreams once again in Paris.

Joining Jha in the prestigious Olympic lineup is Hwan Bae, who will be representing Australia in the Paris Games. As a member of the Australian national team and an ITDP player at 888 Table Tennis Center, Bae’s qualification for the Olympics is a testament to his exceptional talent and the transformative impact of the ITDP program. Through personalized coaching, intensive training sessions, and comprehensive support, the ITDP program equipped Bae with the skills and confidence needed to excel on the international stage, culminating in his qualification for the Paris Games.

“I am incredibly honored and excited to represent Australia in the Paris Olympic Games,” said Hwan Bae. “This achievement is a testament to the hard work and support I’ve received from 888 Table Tennis Center. I am grateful for the opportunity to compete against the best in the world on the Olympic stage.”

While celebrations abound for Jha and Bae, the path to Olympic qualification proved to be a challenging endeavor for some. Already a force in table tennis, Nikhil Kumar, another exceptional talent from 888 Table Tennis Center, came tantalizingly close to securing his spot in the Paris Games but fell short in his bid for qualification. Nevertheless, Kumar’s remarkable performance and unwavering determination serve as a testament to his potential and resilience. Having represented the USA in the Tokyo Olympics, Kumar’s experience will undoubtedly fuel his future endeavors as he continues to strive for excellence in the sport of table tennis.