Tahl Leibovitz Elected Para Athlete Representative to ITTF Athletes’ Commission

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (May 8, 2026) — Seven-time U.S. Paralympian Tahl Leibovitz has been elected as the first U.S. Para Athlete Representative to the ITTF Athletes’ Commission. Leibovitz and Jack Hunter-Spivey (ENG) will enter the commission on four-year terms following the results of the May 7, 2026 election.

Leibovitz joins a commission focused on unifying athlete voices across both para and able-bodied table tennis, helping shape a more inclusive future for the sport. With more than 30 years of experience in para table tennis, the Paralympic gold medalist brings a veteran athlete perspective to the role.

“I want to figure out what the needs are, what the athletes want, and try to represent them,” said Tahl Leibovitz. “It’s a good opportunity to try to move the sport forward.”

Recognizing the importance of peer support, Leibovitz hopes to establish a global network of connected athletes. He’ll collaborate with fellow athlete representatives to bring attention to the needs of para and able-bodied table tennis athletes and help guide the future of international table tennis.

Drawing from his background in social work, Leibovitz also hopes to advocate for player welfare. A graduate of NYU with a Master of Social Work, he understands that many of the mental health challenges athletes face extend far beyond the United States.

The commission is comprised of 10 elected members (eight able-bodied and two para) that work directly with ITTF leadership and working groups on issues ranging from athlete welfare and governance to world ranking systems and Paralympic qualification pathways. Leibovitz brings extensive experience as a para athlete to discussions surrounding those policies.

After beginning his para table tennis career in 1995 and building an accomplished international career, Leibovitz now steps into a leadership role that will enable him to support the next generation of para athletes worldwide.

“Can I do something better than what was done before? Can I do something that’s actually going to impact the athletes — something that’s going to last and make a difference?” reflected Leibovitz on his new position.

For Leibovitz, the role represents an opportunity not only to advocate for athletes, but to help shape the future of international table tennis.