Sports

Lloyd Fernandes from Goa Selected for ITTF Asian Para Championships 2025 in Beijing


Lloyd Fernandes, a para table tennis athlete from Taleigao, Goa, has been selected to represent India at the upcoming ITTF Asian Para Championships 2025, to be held in Beijing from October 13 to 19. Currently ranked No. 1 in India in the Class 2 para table tennis category, Lloyd has proudly represented India twice this year at prestigious international events.

He competed at the ITTF World Para Challenger in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei, on July 2, 2025, and at the ITTF Al-Watani Para Championships 2023 in Amman, Jordan. Lloyd has also earned several national accolades, including gold medals at the Para Table Tennis National Championships and Ranking Championships held in Baroda (March 2025), Indore (March 2024), Ahmedabad (July 2023), and the Khelo India Para Games in Delhi (December 2023). His earlier achievements include silver medals at the National Para Table Tennis Championships in Indore in 2022 and 2023, and a bronze medal at the Purple Fest All India Para TT Open Championship held in Goa in January 2023.

Coached by Selwyn Godinho and supported steadfastly by his wife Stephanie da Costa, Lloydโ€™s commitment and achievements continue to inspire many across India. The Disability Rights Association of Goa has congratulated him on his selection and urged the Honorable Chief Minister to expedite his pending Group A government post application under the Sports Category, which has been awaiting approval for two months.

Lloyd Fernandesโ€™ journey is a testament to perseverance, talent, and dedication, marking a significant milestone for para sports in Goa and India. His participation in the Asian Para Championships is expected to boost the visibility and support for para athletes nationwide.

Sports

Goaโ€™s Lloyd Fernandes Selected for ITTF Asian Para Championship After Double Gold Victory


Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

For many, an accident might seem like the end of life. But for some, it becomes the beginning of a powerful new chapter. Lloyd Fernandes from Goa is one such person who turned tragedy into triumph. In 2016, Lloydโ€™s life changed forever after a devastating accident left him paralyzed. While most would struggle to cope, Lloyd found strength in an unexpected placeโ€”table tennis.

Determined not to let his condition define him, Lloyd picked up the sport after the accident. It started as a form of therapy and evolved into a full-fledged passion. With every swing of the paddle, he built confidence, strength, and purpose. He trained rigorously, competed fiercely, and steadily carved a name for himself in the world of Para Table Tennis.

His hard work paid off in March 2025 when he clinched two consecutive gold medalsโ€”first at the Para Table Tennis National Ranking Championship held from March 17โ€“19, and then again at the Para Senior Table Tennis National Championship from March 21โ€“23. Both prestigious events were hosted at the Sama Indoor Sports Complex in Vadodara, Gujarat.

Lloyd’s exceptional performance has now earned him a coveted spot in the ITTF Asian Para Championship, a major international tournament that gathers the best para-athletes from across the continent. His selection is not just a personal achievement, but also a proud moment for Goa and India.

Lloyd Fernandesโ€™s journey from paralysis to the international stage is more than just a story of sports. It’s a powerful reminder that resilience, determination, and passion can overcome any obstacle. As he prepares to represent India at the ITTF Asian Para Championship, he carries with him the hopes of many and the undeniable spirit of a true champion.

Sports

Proud Moment for Goa: Lloyd Fernandes to Represent India at ITTF World Para Challenger 2025


Taleigao, Goa โ€“ Goa has yet another reason to celebrate as local table tennis champion Lloyd Fernandes gears up to represent India on the global stage at the prestigious ITTF World Para Challenger 2025, to be held in Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) from 2nd to 6th July 2025.

A resident of Taleigao, Lloyd Fernandes has been making waves in the world of para sports. He is currently ranked No. 1 in India in his category, a testament to his skill, determination, and dedication to the sport. Lloyd has earned his spot among the elite 16-member Indian para table tennis team selected to compete in the international championship.

Rising Through the Ranks

Lloydโ€™s journey is not just one of athletic achievement but also of perseverance. Overcoming challenges with grit and grace, he has steadily risen through national rankings to become one of Indiaโ€™s most promising para athletes in table tennis.

This selection to the Indian contingent for the ITTF World Para Challenger is a proud milestone not only for Lloyd but for the entire Goan sporting community. His participation places Goa on the global para sports map and serves as an inspiration for countless young athletes, especially those with disabilities.

Support and Good Wishes from the Community

The Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG) has extended its heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Lloyd for the upcoming championship.

โ€œLloyd Fernandes is a shining example of what is possible with talent, hard work, and the right support. We are proud of his achievements and confident that he will make India and Goa proud at the ITTF World Para Challenger,โ€ said a DRAG representative.

A Role Model for Inclusion and Excellence

As para sports continue to gain recognition, athletes like Lloyd are not only competing but also breaking stereotypes, pushing boundaries, and proving that excellence knows no limits. His representation at an international level underscores the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and support for athletes with disabilities.

The entire state of Goa โ€” and indeed the nation โ€” stands behind Lloyd Fernandes as he prepares to compete against the worldโ€™s best. Here’s wishing him success, strength, and a memorable performance in Chinese Taipei.