President of the African Table Tennis Federation, Wahid Oshodi, has expressed optimism for this year’s ITTF-Africa Championships, praising the impressive form of competing players.

He commended the Tunisian Table Tennis Federation for hosting the event after Rwanda’s late withdrawal, lauding their experience and commitment to the sport.

Mr Oshodi welcomed the strong presence of young talent at the tournament, scheduled to be held in Tunis from October 12 to October 19.

He noted that the competition will serve as a qualifier for the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships in London.

“This year’s tournament will be fiercely contested, given the fine form of our players and the emergence of talented youth athletes,” Mr Oshodi said.

He added that several junior players from recent youth tournaments in Lagos have earned places on their national teams for Tunis.

According to him, their inclusion shows growth and readiness to challenge experienced players, adding that upsets are expected as young stars seek to shine.

“We must also recognise the experience of our established players, which will make the competition even more exciting,” he said.

Mr Oshodi described Tunisia as a seasoned host with a strong record, adding that the atmosphere will rival any global table tennis event.

He said the team event will be the highlight, serving as a qualifier for the 2026 World Team Championships in London.

The 2026 edition will mark the sport’s centenary, returning to London, where the ITTF and the first World Championships were founded in 1926.

This year’s championship will feature Africa’s best players across seven categories: men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team events.

The Rades Multisports Hall will host eight thrilling days of top-level competition, showcasing the continent’s finest talents.

(NAN)