Sam Altshuler beats world No. 3 to win ITTF Para Challenger Spokane title

Sam Altshuler claimed the men’s singles Class 6 title at the ITTF Para Challenger Spokane by beating world No. 3 Simion Bobi 3-1 in the final. The set scores of 12-10, 13-11 and 12-10 showed how tight the match was. Although he lost the second set 4-11, Altshuler stayed composed in the decisive moments. This is his first Challenger gold. He earned 300 points and moved up to world No. 6 just before the ITTF Para Elite Spokane tournament, which begins on Aug. 11. After the match, Altshuler said: “It was a tough match and great to get it done. If you told me two years ago I would reach this level, I would not have believed it. I want to thank my parents and everyone who has supported me throughout my table tennis journey.” The win was not just about technique. Altshuler showed patience against a higher-ranked rival. The two-point margins in the close sets highlighted his mental strength. At Spokane, a place in the global top six became a result, not merely a dream. The upcoming Elite Spokane event will be an important test. Altshuler will then travel to Yvelines, France, for a September tournament. On Nov. 13 he will begin play at the World Para Championships in Pattaya, Thailand, where the event runs until Nov. 19. If he keeps this consistency, the No. 6 spot may not be his limit. Spokane could be the start of a new chapter. Altshuler is no longer an unknown; he is proving his value with points, by handling pressure, and by beating one of the world’s leading para table tennis players.