Nigerian table tennis players are gearing up for the WTT Contender Lagos, which kicks off on Tuesday, July 22, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.
The players are coming off a strong performance at the recently concluded ITTF Africa West Regional Championships, where Matthew Kuti and Ajoke Ojomu emerged as singles champions.
Taiwo Mati, a men’s singles semifinalist, highlighted the importance of the regional tournament in preparing them for the international stage. “The level of play definitely helped us get into top form for the WTT Contender Lagos,” Mati said. “There’s no doubt the WTT will be more challenging, given the caliber of international players coming to Lagos.”
Ajoke Ojomu, who clinched her first regional title, is also heading into the WTT Contender Lagos with renewed confidence. “I believe we have what it takes to perform well this year,” Ojomu said.
This year’s WTT Contender Lagos comes with increased stakes, as the prize money has been raised from $75,000 to $100,000. Winners in both the singles and doubles events will earn 400 ranking points, making the tournament even more competitive and rewarding.
“The regional event showed that many of us have made significant improvements. Personally, it helped me identify areas I need to work on before the tournament kicks off,” Mati said.
