Smirnov holds backgammon gold for 40 years… and Tariq is runner-up in the Abu Dhabi Masters Games

Estonian historical champion Alexander Smirnov won the gold medal in the professional table tennis competition in the over-40 category, within the Masters Games – Abu Dhabi 2026, after defeating Egyptian Ahmed Tariq (sports journalist in Emirates Today), who won the silver medal.

The Estonian champion is considered one of the most prominent stars in table tennis, having won more than 40 gold medals throughout his career in local, European and international tournaments, while Ahmed Tariq qualified for the knockout rounds after finishing first in the group stage, before going through the rounds of 32, the eighth-finals, the quarter-finals and the semi-finals until reaching the final match.

On the other hand, the curtain will fall tomorrow, Monday, on the Abu Dhabi 2026 Masters Games, with a closing ceremony held on Al Hudayriat Island, preceded by several final competitions for the global event, which is being held for the first time in the Middle East, with a record participation of more than 25,000 male and female athletes from various countries of the world.

The family race will be held tomorrow with wide participation from all nationalities and ages, in celebration of movement, community spirit, and the sustainable legacy of the Games.

One of the most prominent stations of the day was the start of the camel races in Al Wathba, one of the most ancient heritage sports in the Emirates, where the event brought together participants and audiences, reflecting the Games’ commitment to celebrating international sports and local heritage alike.

Falconry competitions also continued at the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, highlighting the country’s rich cultural heritage and providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about one of its oldest sporting traditions.