US Para Table Tennis Shows Grit and Growth at ITTF World Para Challenger Sao Paulo

Zachary Pickett (Class 4-5) demonstrated significant improvement by securing a 2-1 record in the group stage, earning him a spot in the semifinals. He faced a challenging match against Brazil's Olivera, ultimately falling in a close 3-1 contest. Samuel Altshuler (Class 6) continued his medal-winning streak in 2025, reaching the semifinals and securing a bronze medal. His semifinal match against Paralympian Pino Lorca proved to be a valuable learning experience.

Logan Watson (Class 9) placed second in his group successfully to reach the semifinals, where he faced a formidable opponent in Paris 2024 Paralympic bronze medalist Ander Cepas, ultimately losing the match.

The doubles events proved to be a significant source of success for the US team. In the Men's Doubles MD8 category, the duo of Zachary Pickett and Jenson Van Emburgh displayed exceptional teamwork. They emerged victorious from their group, continued their winning streak in the semifinals, and capped off their impressive performance by winning the final, solidifying their position as a top team in the Pan American region.

The teenage pairing of Cole Rothenberger and Samuel Altshuler achieved their first international doubles medal in the Men's Doubles MD14, securing a well-deserved bronze. Logan Watson, partnering with Brazil's Joao Possas in the Men's Doubles MD18, had a remarkable run. They notably defeated Paris 2024 MD18 bronze medalists Manara and Massad en route to claiming a bronze medal. Adding to the medal haul, Logan Watson also partnered with Argentina's Gissele Munoz in the Mixed Doubles XD17 event, earning another bronze medal.

"Since the establishment of the Training Center in Charlotte, we have witnessed significant improvement across the board," said Coach Vlad Farcas. "The dedication and hard work these athletes put in day in and day out is clearly showing in their performances like the ones we saw in Sao Paulo. It's incredibly rewarding to see their commitment translate into tangible results on the international stage. Looking ahead, we have Jenson Van Emburgh, Samuel Altshuler, and Tahl Leibovitz all competing in early May in back-to-back events in Slovenia at the ITTF Para Challenger Lasko and the ITTF Para World Elite Lasko. Following that, all eyes will be on the USA as we host the ITTF Para World Elite Spokane and the ITTF Para World Future Spokane. This is an exciting time for US Para Table Tennis!"

The presence and guidance of coach Pieke Frannsen, who brought his valuable international experience to the event, further bolstered the team's efforts. The results from the ITTF World Para Challenger in Sao Paulo highlight the continued development and potential of the US Para Table Tennis team as they look towards future international competitions.