Miscellaneous

Germany's top star Timo Boll has been on his announced farewell tour of the German Table Tennis League (TTBL) with Borussia Düsseldorf since the start of the season. Here, at regular intervals, important companions formulate thoughts and memories of the most successful player in the history of the Bundesliga and his incomparable career. Before the former world number one serves for the last time on June 15 in the Liebherr TTBL final, Managing Director of the German Table Tennis League Nico Stehle looks back on more than two decades of Boll in the TTBL in the ninth part of our series “Bye, Timo”.

"Timo is undoubtedly one of the greatest German athletes of all time - not just in table tennis, but in top-level sport as a whole. His name is inextricably linked with the success story of German table tennis, and in particular with the development and international reputation of the TTBL.

He embodies everything that makes up sport at its best: passion, discipline, fairness and humanity. Timo shaped the German table tennis league for over two decades, leaving his mark not only on the sport but also on people.

An exceptional sporting talent - fully committed to the TTBL

Since his breakthrough in the Bundesliga, Timo has impressed with a unique combination of technique, playing intelligence and mental strength. With Borussia Düsseldorf and previously with TTV Gönnern, he won back-to-back national titles, became an icon of German table tennis and the backbone of his teams. His style of play was influential - as was his always respectful treatment of opponents, fans and officials. Particularly noteworthy: he always played in the German table tennis league throughout his career. At a time when many top players were accepting lucrative offers from other top international leagues, Timo remained loyal to his home league. Timo showed that world class can also be “Made in Germany”. His decision to remain in the TTBL at all times gave the league an international reputation and enormous sporting appeal.

Down-to-earth despite global fame

What sets Timo apart: Despite being world number one and flag bearer for the German team at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and celebrating countless international successes, he has always remained down-to-earth. Whether in training, when dealing with journalists or in small talk with fans - Timo radiates modesty and approachability. He is someone who listens, who does not put himself above others and who has never forgotten his roots.

This attitude has made him a popular figure not only in the Bundesliga, but also beyond - a sportsman who builds bridges between competitive sport and everyday life, between international fame and regional ties.

Fairness as a trademark

Timo was never just out for points or victories. He was always a representative of fair sport. Discussions with referees, unsportsmanlike behavior or provocations - you will look in vain for any of that with him. On the contrary: he became the epitome of sporting integrity. His behavior at the table was characterized by respect - towards opponents, teammates, spectators and the game itself.
This fairness was and is a role model for generations of young players and one reason why he is valued not only for his titles, but also for his character.

Social commitment - living responsibility

Timo was always aware of his role as a public figure and used his fame to do good. Whether as a supporter of aid projects, as an ambassador for inclusion in sport or as a sponsor of young talent - Timo is committed with conviction and heart. His social commitment is not a PR tool, but an expression of genuine humanity.

He shows that top-class sport can also bear social responsibility - and demonstrates this on a daily basis.

An ambassador for the sport and the German Table Tennis League

Beyond his sporting successes, Timo was always an exemplary ambassador for the sport of table tennis and the German Table Tennis League. Through his presence and popularity - even far beyond the table tennis scene - he contributed significantly to the public perception and professionalization of the TTBL. He brought media attention, sponsor interest and spectator numbers to a new level.

Mentor and role model

Timo also left his mark on the league as a team leader. He was a role model for younger players, not only in terms of technique, but above all in terms of fairness, discipline and sportsmanship. Many young talents who play in the Bundesliga today name him as their greatest role model - proof of his lasting influence.

A legacy for eternity

Timo's contribution to the TTBL goes beyond titles and medals. He played a key role in making the Bundesliga one of the strongest table tennis leagues in the world. His successes have shaped an era and will continue to have an impact for a long time to come - in the structures of the league, in the spirit of fairness, in the attitude with which young players approach the sport and in the hearts of the fans.

Timo has not only shaped the German Table Tennis League - he has helped shape it, professionalized it and made it internationally visible. He has not only set standards through his titles and successes - but above all through his attitude. His loyalty, fairness and social commitment make him one of the greatest ambassadors for sport that Germany has ever had. He is a role model that remains.

The fact that he has dedicated his entire career to the TTBL is a strong sign - and a gift for German table tennis. He is not just a champion on paper, but a true ambassador for the sport - credible, human, unique.

Dear Timo,

Not only as Managing Director of the TTBL, but above all as someone who has had the good fortune to be able to accompany you for many years as a teammate, roommate and friend, I would like to say a few personal words to you today.

Our paths crossed early on - around 30 years ago, we played together on the international stage in the youth national team jersey. I was able to witness at close quarters how an exceptionally talented youngster became one of the greatest players in table tennis history. Later on, we celebrated the Champions League title together - with patrons, among others -, took part in training courses and tournaments, shared rooms, laughed at movie nights or competed for shots on the golf course. These were moments that I cherish - not because of the sporting successes, but because of the friendship that grew out of them.

What distinguishes you - and has always distinguished you - is not just your class at the table, but the way you have never put yourself at the center of attention, even though you deserve it. You are someone who pulls others along without being loud. Someone who leads with attitude - with fairness, loyalty, modesty and a deep respect for the sport and the people around it.

You have given the TTBL and German table tennis a face over many years - one that radiates confidence, character and world class. We owe you a debt of gratitude for that - as managers, as fans and especially as friends.

Thank you for everything, Timo."

Recorded by Florian Manzke