ITTF launches safeguarding probe after security check incident at London team worlds
Synopsis
The ITTF's promise of enhanced protection rings hollow without teeth. A female athlete from Chinese Taipei was subjected to inappropriate physical contact during a pre-match security check at the world's premier team championship — the very gatekeeping mechanism meant to keep her safe became the threat. The investigation must name the security contractor, detail the specifics of what occurred, and outline concrete policy changes. Vague statements about "non-negotiable" dignity, without accountability, are the language of damage control, not reform.
Key Takeaways
A female athlete from the Chinese Taipei women's team reported inappropriate physical contact during a security check at the London World Team Table Tennis Championships .
Coach Zheng Jiaqi alleged the security staff member engaged in conduct that "may constitute sexual harassment" and obstructed the player's passage.
The ITTF , WTT , and Local Organising Committee launched a comprehensive fact-finding and safeguarding investigation.
The organisations pledged full support to the athlete and committed to preventing recurrence of such incidents.
The championships continue through 10 May in London .
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) on Saturday vowed enhanced athlete protection measures following a report of "inappropriate physical contact" during a security screening at the World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in London. A female athlete from the Chinese Taipei women's team was affected during a pre-match security check, according to team coach Zheng Jiaqi.
In a statement, the ITTF, World Table Tennis (WTT), and the local organising committee said they were "deeply troubled" by the claim and that "every athlete deserves to feel safe, respected, and protected at all times and in all spaces." The organisations characterised the reported conduct as "completely unacceptable."
What the coach reported
Zheng Jiaqi disclosed on social media that "an extremely serious and unacceptable incident occurred during the pre-match security check." He alleged that a security staff member engaged in inappropriate physical contact with the player, including behaviour that "may constitute sexual harassment," and obstructed her passage.
Immediate response and support
The ITTF, WTT, and the Local Organising Committee confirmed direct contact with the athlete's team and pledged "full assistance and support." Officials stated that the safety and dignity of athletes are "non-negotiable" and that no party involved in event organisation will tolerate conduct compromising athlete wellbeing.
Investigation underway
A comprehensive fact-finding and safeguarding investigation is currently underway. The governing bodies committed to a thorough review of the situation and measures to prevent recurrence. The London World Team Table Tennis Championships continues through 10 May.
Broader safeguarding context
This incident highlights persistent concerns about athlete safety at international sporting events. The ITTF and WTT have previously strengthened codes of conduct, though implementation gaps at venue level remain a recurring issue. The investigation outcome is expected to inform revised security protocols for future championships.
Point of View
Specifies exactly what occurred, and results in tangible protocol changes — or whether this becomes another incident filed away in the archives of athlete grievances. The fact that a security screening, ostensibly designed to protect athletes, became a site of harm exposes a systemic gap in vetting and training at major events. Promises of future safeguarding are hollow without accountability for the present.
NationPress
9 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident occurred at the London World Team Table Tennis Championships?
A female athlete from the Chinese Taipei women's team reported inappropriate physical contact during a pre-match security check. Coach Zheng Jiaqi alleged that a security staff member engaged in inappropriate physical contact, including behaviour that may constitute sexual harassment, and obstructed the player's passage.
How did the ITTF respond to the allegation?
The ITTF, WTT, and Local Organising Committee issued a statement calling the conduct "completely unacceptable" and reaffirming that athlete safety and dignity are "non-negotiable." They confirmed direct contact with the athlete's team and pledged full support and assistance.
Is an investigation underway?
Yes. A comprehensive fact-finding and safeguarding investigation is currently underway by the ITTF, WTT, and the Local Organising Committee to review the situation and determine measures to prevent recurrence.
When does the London World Team Table Tennis Championships conclude?
The championships run through 10 May in London. The incident occurred during the event, which continues as the investigation proceeds.
