Table tennis world relishes WTT Contender Lagos

BY OLALEKAN OKUSAN

The 2024 WTT Contender Lagos has concluded, leaving lasting memories for players, especially the visitors who recognise Lagos as a burgeoning hub for table tennis. Beyond the seamless organization, the passionate Lagos fans play a significant role in elevating players’ performances. With 15 countries from four continents converging in Nigeria’s commercial center for the five-day $80,000 prize money WTT Series, many athletes have pledged to return next year. The vibrant atmosphere at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium inspires competitors to give their best.ble 

Former World No. 1 Dimitrij Ovtcharov, visiting Lagos for the second time, believes the city has become a part of him. His recent victory in the WTT Contender Lagos Men’s Singles, where he defeated compatriot Ricardo Walther, further solidified his connection to the city.

Ovtcharov expressed his excitement: “Coming back to Lagos, I felt well-supported last year. Winning here is truly special. It reminds me of Germany, my home, and Russia, where I used to play and always felt welcomed.”

Steffen Mengel, another German player and quarterfinalist in the Men’s Singles, described the Lagos atmosphere as unique. He appreciated the warm welcome from the crowd, emphasising the enthusiastic support during matches.

Sreeja Akula, the Women’s Singles champion and the first Indian female to win the WTT Contender title, echoed the sentiment. Having visited Lagos twice before, she considers the city a fortress for Indian players and looks forward to more WTT Tournaments there.

Manav Thakkar, whose career took off in Lagos in 2023, celebrated his first WTT Contender title in doubles alongside Harmeet Desai. Thakkar expressed joy at playing with Desai and winning in front of an enthusiastic crowd. He hopes to return and continue performing well.

Women’s Doubles champion Archana Kamath, back in Lagos after her maiden visit in 2023, praised the improving crowd and expressed excitement about future tournaments in the city.
French semifinalist Thibault Poret eagerly anticipates his return in 2025, appreciating the well-organised tournament and the unique Lagos experience.

Lagos, with its passionate fans and vibrant atmosphere, continues to leave a lasting impression on players worldwide.

Indian flag-bearer for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Sharath Achanta, expressed his satisfaction with his first visit to Lagos. He acknowledged the city’s reputation and was pleasantly surprised by what he encountered. Lagos, he noted, provides an excellent environment for table tennis, especially with the enthusiastic support from fans. The Indian team chose Lagos as part of their Olympic Games preparation, recognising the importance of competitive matches leading up to the event.

Sathiyan Gnanasekaran, also experiencing Lagos for the first time, appreciated the vibrant atmosphere and entertaining crowd.

Beyond the fan support, Indian players couldn’t overlook the local cuisine, particularly Jollof Rice. Yashaswini Ghorpade, a Women’s Singles semifinalist, praised Nigeria’s culinary delights, emphasizing the similarity to Indian flavors.

Ayhika Mukherejee echoed the sentiment, emphasising Lagos as a strategic location for WTT Contender tournaments. The city consistently hosts high-quality events, attracting players from around the world.

South Korean star Shin Yubin, a returning visitor to Lagos, described the people as electrifying, highlighting the fun-filled experience.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a special guest at the WTT Contender Lagos finale, pledged continued support for the tournament. He recognised Lagos as a hub for promoting table tennis and praised the organisation and passionate fans. Sanwo-Olu hopes this success will inspire more sponsors and restore Lagos’ sporting glory.

Lagos truly shines as a vibrant and welcoming host for international table tennis events!