The world of table tennis is in mourning following the announcement by the International Table Tennis Federation of the passing of Saleh Al-Jafarawi on October 15, 2025. The ITTF, the sport's global governing body, released an official statement expressing their condolences and recognizing the substantial impact Al-Jafarawi had on the table tennis community.

Al-Jafarawi was recognized as a significant figure within the international table tennis landscape, though the circumstances of his passing have not been disclosed in the federation's initial announcement. The ITTF's decision to issue an official mourning statement underscores the respect and admiration Al-Jafarawi commanded within the sport's administrative and competitive circles.

The timing of this announcement, coming in mid-October, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the global table tennis community. The sport, which enjoys massive popularity across Asia, Europe, and increasingly in other regions, has lost one of its notable contributors at a time when the game continues to grow in prominence and participation worldwide.

The International Table Tennis Federation, headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, serves as the governing body for table tennis globally, overseeing international competitions, player rankings, and the development of the sport in member nations around the world. When the federation issues official statements of this nature, it reflects the significant standing of the individual within the sport's hierarchy and community.

Al-Jafarawi's influence on table tennis extended beyond any single match or tournament. Figures like him often work behind the scenes, contributing to the sport's development through administrative roles, coaching, advocacy for the game in their regions, or other vital functions that support the infrastructure enabling players to compete at the highest levels.

The loss of such community pillars represents more than the passing of an individual; it marks the end of an era of expertise, institutional knowledge, and personal relationships built over years of dedication to the sport. These figures often serve as bridges between generations of players and administrators, carrying forward the traditions and values of table tennis while helping to shape its future direction.

As the table tennis world processes this loss, the focus will inevitably turn to honoring Al-Jafarawi's legacy and contributions. The ITTF's formal recognition through their mourning statement ensures that his impact on the sport will be remembered and celebrated by the global table tennis family.

In the coming days and weeks, more details about Al-Jafarawi's specific contributions to table tennis and memorial arrangements are expected to emerge. For now, the international table tennis community stands united in grief, reflecting on the loss of one of their own and the void left by his passing.