ITTF CEO criticizes Calderano for US tournament visa issue

www1.folha.uol.com.br (Portuguese) — July 6, 2025 at 07:00 PM UTC

ITTF CEO Steve Dainton criticized table tennis player Hugo Calderano after a visa issue prevented him from competing in a US tournament. Dainton stated that being a professional involves more than just performance. Calderano, ranked third in the world, was unable to participate in the Las Vegas Grand Smash due to a delayed US visa. The delay stemmed from a 2023 trip to Cuba, which reportedly made him ineligible for visa waivers. Calderano, who holds Portuguese citizenship, followed standard procedures but faced unexpected delays. He attempted to secure an emergency visa but couldn't schedule a consular interview in time for the tournament.

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