A tragic incident has cast a shadow over Indian table tennis, as veteran paddler I. M. Louis Raj passed away after collapsing mid-match at the National Masters Championships in Pune.
The Tamil Nadu player was competing in the 65-plus category during a third-round singles match when the incident occurred. He had started strongly, taking a 2-0 lead and was ahead in the third game when he suddenly collapsed on court.
Medical staff rushed in immediately, administering CPR and emergency treatment before he was quickly transported to a nearby hospital. However, he was declared dead on arrival.
Initial reports indicated cardiac arrest, with a post-mortem later confirming the cause of death as cardiac tamponade—a condition where fluid buildup around the heart affects its function.
The incident took place at the ongoing National Masters Table Tennis Championships, leaving players, officials, and spectators in shock. Fellow players and officials informed his family in Chennai, while arrangements are being made to transport his mortal remains.
Condolences have poured in from across the table tennis fraternity, with officials remembering him as a dedicated sportsperson and a warm personality who remained deeply connected to the game even in his later years.
His sudden passing is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life, even in the middle of sport.
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