Finland’s Benedek Olah, the men’s singles defending champion of ITTF Challenge Nigeria Open, on Thursday admitted that retaining the title would be difficult at this year’s event.
Olah said in a statement by the International Table Tennis Federation’s Africa Media Department that the quality of players would make it more challenging.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the championships are scheduled for August 9 to 13 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, Nigeria.
Olah said the challenge would be tough coupled with the presence of Africa’s highest ranked star, Aruna Quadri.
The ITTF noted that the Finnish, who won his first international title at the 2016 edition, described his experience in Lagos as unique considering the enthusiasm of the spectators.
Olah said: “The atmosphere at the hall was legendary because I have never seen such a lively and fun-packed table tennis tournament like what I saw in Lagos last year.
“Particularly the music interlude in between matches was inspiring to us as players.
“As I am eagerly looking forward to the tournament, I am also worried because of the nasty elbow injury which has not allowed me to train 100 per cent.”
According to Olah, the quality of players already confirmed for the tournament will make it harder for him, particularly the presence of the homeboy, Quadri.
He said: “I must say that it is not going to be easy to retain the title this year with the presence of mighty Quadri, whom I think, is a very talented player.
“So, it is not going to be easy at all but I am hoping that the Lagos fans will support me again this year just like they did in 2016.
“I am hoping that the right music will be played during the tournament that will put me in the right frame of mind for every game.”
Olah, whose victory dance in 2016 went viral on social media, believed the 2016 triumph had improved his global status in the sport.
He said: “When I came to Nigeria in 2016, I was not expecting that I will win but the right atmosphere was put in place by the organisers.
“That coupled with the huge support from the crowd made it possible for me to win. It was fun for me and I was so excited.”
NAN.