Queen of Champions

How beautifully did this name fit its talented owner, Angelica (Edelstein) Rozeanu; either it has the authentic air of regal quality or we are conditioned to recognizing the name as that of the “The Queen of Table Tennis.” Angelica Rozeanu is unique and will rank among the “greats” of the table tennis world.

The young Angelica Edelstein was an eager devotee of all sports, tennis, cycling and swimming being her first favorites. Then, at the age of 12, she was introduced to table tennis, and immediately she said, “I preferred table tennis or perhaps, if you like, table tennis preferred me.”

How Good Was She?

Angelica Rozeanu was the greatest female table tennis player of all time. How good was she? She won an astounding six consecutive World Singles titles (1950-1955), a feat never equaled in either men’s or women’s play. Her many other accomplishments will be reviewed shortly but first, I would like to present a glowing tribute to this amazing woman, as expressed so vividly by Rene Imbert in his letter to her below:
 

Paris, 01/14/1954

To Mrs. Angelica Rozeanu,

Ping-Pong World Champion

Madam,

Thank you and Linda Wertl for the splendid show that you gave us yesterday at Coubertin stadium, a show at which we were most enthusiastic and amazed!

Since table tennis has reached this level, it is no longer a sport, there is no longer a winner, nor a loser, it has become Art (in the true sense of the word) and we have witnessed pure Beauty.

What exciting moments you made us live through. What a celebration for our eyes!

We couldn't wish for the success of one of you without feeling unjust toward the other! And the victory of your adversary, even if deserved, was a gross injustice to you! Only blind fate determined the choice of the winner. However, despite the fantastic strokes of Linda Wertl, despite her magnificent effort, her obstinacy, her ceaseless attack, her aggressiveness without equal, despite her immense joy when the final result was announced, I secretly wished for your triumph. Seeing you returning balls, unbelievable returns for anyone, I thought that you deserved the victory.

What a style! What confidence! What grace in the movements formed in flashes with precision! What a great lesson you gave to all of us, and how much the game Roothoft-FIisberg paled compared to your Homeric combat.

You both have delighted us this memorable evening. But you charmed us forever, dear Angelica Rozeanu, genius of feminine ping-pong! Once again thank you, and come back often!

Please receive our gratitude and our boundless admiration.

Rene Imbert

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