The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu has hailed the organisation of the just concluded World Table Tennis (WTT) Contender Lagos 2024.
Mr Sanwo-Olu, witnessed the closing ceremony of the international tourney held inside Molade Okoya-Thomas indoor sports hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu, who was excited that the tournament once again boosted the image of the state as a sports destination in the world said: “We once again witnessed Lagos being highlighted on the international table tennis stage.
“The tournament served as a remarkable platform for local players to challenge themselves against top-tier athletes from around the world. This experience not only fueled growth and inspiration among aspiring table tennis talents in Lagos and Nigeria but also showcased our city’s prowess on the global stage.
“With over 70 elite players participating, Lagos has solidified its reputation as the ultimate hub for Table Tennis.
“Our administration is intentional about fostering a conducive environment for sports to flourish in Lagos and this event perfectly aligns with our THEMES+ agenda, positioning Lagos as a premier destination for hosting international sporting events.”
In the Women’s Singles final, Sreeja Akula of India and Ding Yijie of China faced off in what was both players’ first WTT Series singles final appearance. Akula, with two WTT Feeder Series titles to her name, and Ding, a rising star with four WTT Youth Series titles, battled fiercely for the champion title. Akula’s remarkable journey to the final saw her save three match points in the semifinals, demonstrating her resilience and determination. Ding, making her WTT Series debut, aimed to become the lowest-ranked player to win a WTT Series Women’s Singles title. Ultimately, Akula emerged victorious with a 4-1 win (10-12, 11-9, 11-6, 11-8, 11-6), adding a double chapter to her growing legacy, after her Women’s Doubles win today.
The Men’s Singles final featured an all-German clash between Dimitrij Ovtcharov and Ricardo Walther. Ovtcharov, a seasoned competitor and 2023 finalist, was determined to claim his first WTT Series singles title since 2021. Although Walther, making his first appearance at WTT Contender Lagos, sought to make his mark with a victory, Ovtcharov triumphed over Walther at 4-1 (11-7, 11-7, 7-11, 12-10, 11-6), securing his second WTT Series singles title.
Lagos has proven yet again to be an exceptional host for the WTT Series, with fans treated to incredibly competitive table tennis action. The event featured 32-draw Men’s and Women’s Singles, 16-draw Men’s and Women’s Doubles, and 16-draw Mixed Doubles, all vying for a share of the USD 80,000 prize pool and ITTF World Ranking points.
As the WTT Series continues its journey across the globe, the focus now shifts to WTT Contender Tunis 2024 Presented by KIA, set to take place from 25 to 30 June. Egypt’s Omar Assar is set to pull a crowd as Host Wildcard in the Men’s Singles Main Draw, together with Canada’s Edward Ly and Hiroto Shinozuka from Japan. Satsuki Odo from Japan, and Sweden’s Filippa Bergand and Matilda Hansson join as Host Wildcards in the Women’s Singles Main Draw in Tunis.
