Sri Lanka’s ten-year-old Taavi Samaraweera, a table tennis prodigy from S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia, winner of the under 11 boys’ singles at “2026 WTT Youth Contender event” held in Qatar from 19-22 January 2026 and who became World No.1 in the Under-11 category in December 2025 becoming the first Sri Lankan to reach this milestone and Sri Lanka’s Under-15 table tennis champion, Muthuli Welathanthrige who also participated in the tournament in Doha, called on Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Qatar, Sithara Khan on 25 January 2026 at the Embassy.
The Ambassador warmly welcomed and congratulated the young players, commending their dedication and efforts to bring honour to Sri Lanka at such a young age. She also congratulated their coach for the training provided to bring them to world class level in the sport. Ambassador Khan also wished the young athletes more success and opportunities to bring glory to Sri Lanka.
The two young athletes were accompanied by their coach Mr. Hasitha Samaraweera, who is also Taavi’s father.
Minister of the Embassy Mr. Dharmasiri Wijewardhana and Counsellor Ms. Dulanji Herath together with the President and members of the Sri Lanka Coordinating Committee in Qatar, were also present.
The Embassy extended its best wishes to Taavi Samaraweera and Muthuli Welathanthrige for more success in future competitions and appreciated their efforts in bringing pride to Sri Lanka during their participation in Qatar.
Sri Lanka Embassy
Doha
25 January 2026
