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Tag: ITTF

African Stars Chase ITTF World Cup Spots in Libya

Fola Badmus05 mins

For the first time in the history of table tennis, Libya’s second-largest city, Benghazi, will welcome Africa’s finest players as they battle for coveted tickets to the 2026 ITTF World Cup in Macao, China. From February 7 to 9, the iconic Al-Nasr Sports Club will host the ITTF Africa Cup, bringing together elite athletes from across the continent to North Africa in pursuit of podium finishes and passage to the global arena. The stakes are high: semifinalists in both the men’s and women’s singles will automatically secure their places at next month’s World Cup in Macao. For the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) and its African counterpart, Libya’s hosting of the championship is more than a competition as it is a testament to the diversity of the sport and a celebration of unity and excellence across Africa. Wahid Enitan Oshodi, President of ITTF Africa, praised the Libyan Table Tennis Federation (LTTF) for its commitment to staging the tournament. He highlighted the cultural richness of the occasion, noting that Libya’s enthusiasm in welcoming athletes, officials, and fans from across the continent makes the event truly special. “Gatherings such as this celebrate both our diversity and our unity, defining what it means to be part of the table tennis family,” Oshodi remarked. Echoing this sentiment, ITTF President Petra Sörling emphasized the growing global presence of African table tennis. “The ITTF Africa Cup has become a strong reflection of the continent’s rising influence within the international table tennis landscape. Through sustained efforts in competition delivery, high-performance development, and organizational capacity, African table tennis continues to strengthen its foundations and broaden its impact on the world stage,” she said. This year’s tournament carries added significance as the sport approaches its centenary. Oshodi reflected on the milestone, pointing to the 2026 World Team Championships in London as the culmination of a century of progress. “The ITTF Africa Cup provides an invaluable opportunity for our players and teams to sharpen their preparations, foster competitive excellence, and nurture the spirit of table tennis throughout the region,” he noted. The ITTF chairperson also commended Libya’s boldness in hosting the event during such a historic year. “2026 marks 100 years since the founding of the ITTF and the first World Table Tennis Championships in 1926. As the sport reflects on a century of growth, it is important to recognize that this milestone belongs to the entire table tennis community, whose dedication across generations has shaped the sport we know today.” Looking ahead, Sorling, who is an IOC Executive Member, said Africa’s role in the global sporting movement continues to expand, with major milestones on the horizon—including preparations for the first-ever Youth Olympic Games to be hosted on the continent. Within this broader context, she added that the ITTF Africa Cup stands as both a celebration of African ambition and a declaration of the continent’s confidence and future potential in the world of table tennis.  

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2026 ITTF World Championships: Nigeria Draws Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, South Africa

Fola Badmus04 mins

Nigeria has been drawn alongside Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa in Group 15 of the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals, set to take place in London from April 28 to May 10, 2026. The draw, held today at The Shard, marked the beginning of a historic celebration of 100 years of the World Championships. “From London to London, we have come full circle,” said ITTF President Petra Sörling. “England has hosted the World Championships on seven occasions, but returning to where it all began makes this centenary edition truly special. This event is already historic, but I am confident it will also be unforgettable.” The Quadri Aruna-led men’s team will face tough opposition from Asian giants Hong Kong, who boast some of the finest young players in the world, as well as Middle Eastern powerhouse Saudi Arabia and continental rivals South Africa. In the women’s category, Fatimo Bello will captain Nigeria in Group 11, where they will battle against Australia, Uzbekistan, and Wales. African champions Egypt, led by Omar Assar, received a favourable draw in the men’s event, facing Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Thailand. Rising star Hana Goda will lead Egypt’s women’s team against Algeria, South Africa, and Syria. Reigning champions China, winners of the last 11 editions, headline Group 1 alongside host nation England, five-time winners Sweden, and Korea Republic. France, silver medallists at the last edition, will face Japan, Germany, and Chinese Taipei in Group 2 as they bid to lift the Swaythling Cup for the first time. In the women’s competition, hosts England were drawn in Group 2 with Japan, Germany, and France, while China, 23-time Corbillon Cup winners, lead Group 1 against Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei, and Romania. The draw ceremony was attended by ITTF President and IOC Member Petra Sörling, ITTF Executive Vice President Beatrice Romanescu, World Table Tennis CEO Steve Dainton, Chair of Table Tennis International Events Richard Scruton, Table Tennis England Chair Clare Briegal MBE, Table Tennis England President and World Championship medallist Jill Parker MBE, England men’s athlete and three-time Olympian Paul Drinkhall, ITTF Nominations Committee Chair Sandra Deaton, and UK Sport Deputy Director Esther Britten MBE. The top eight seeds in each competition will contest Stage 1a at OVO Arena Wembley from May 2–3, with all teams progressing to Stage 2. Group performances will determine seedings for the knockout rounds. Stage 1b will take place at the Copper Box Arena from April 28–May 1, where 56 teams in each competition will battle for the remaining 24 places in the Main Draw. London 2026 marks 100 years since the first World Championships were held in the city in 1926, making this the most significant edition in the event’s history.  

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Nigeria, Egypt, Others Draw Opponents for 2026 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships

Fola Badmus03 mins

African table tennis giants Nigeria and Egypt are set to spearhead the continent’s campaign at the 2026 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, which will unfold in London from April 28 to May 10. The official draws will take place at The Shard, London’s tallest building, on Monday, January 26, setting the stage for a historic tournament. In the men’s category, 12 African teams will line up among the 64 nations competing for global supremacy. The women’s category will see 11 African teams join the 64-nation field, a milestone that coincides with the centenary anniversary of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). Of the 64 teams per gender, 52 qualified through continental championships, 11 earned their places via the world rankings of November 2025, while host nation England completes the roll call. Beyond Nigeria and Egypt, Africa’s representation in the men’s division includes Benin, Tunisia, Algeria, Togo, Madagascar, Morocco, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Angola. In the women’s division, the continent will be represented by Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Madagascar, Algeria, Tunisia, Uganda, South Africa, Angola, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo DR. A century after the inaugural ITTF World Table Tennis Championships were staged in England in 1926, the sport now returns to its birthplace for a landmark centenary celebration. The 2026 edition promises intensity and spectacle, with 64 men’s and 64 women’s teams competing across 13 days at two iconic London venues. The format will unfold in three stages as Stage 1B features group stages determining qualification pathways, followed by Stage 1A seeding matches for the top-ranked teams, before Stage 2 delivers knockout rounds showcasing the world’s finest teams in pursuit of global supremacy. The ITTF World Championships remain the pinnacle of table tennis—a stage where legends are forged, and history is written. The countdown has begun, the teams are assembling, and the world awaits as London 2026 prepares to host a celebration of sport unlike any other.

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Nigeria Petitions ITTF Over Visa Denial for World Youth Championships in Romania

Wale busari03 mins

The Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) has lodged a formal petition with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) after its players were denied entry visas to compete at the ongoing 2025 World Youth Championships in Romania. The development has sparked concern within Nigeria’s table tennis community, as the setback threatens the country’s participation in one of the sport’s most prestigious youth tournaments. In a letter signed by NTTF President Adesoji Tayo, the federation condemned the decision, describing it as a violation of the principles of international sportsmanship, inclusivity, and fair participation that ITTF and its partners uphold. “As an official representative of Nigeria and Africa in this prestigious global event, I firmly believe that the reasons provided for the visa refusal are unjust, discriminatory, and contrary to the spirit of unity which international sports is designed to foster,” Tayo stated. Despite weeks of intensive training by players and coaches, the visa denial has dampened the spirit of the contingent and resulted in financial losses for the federation. Nigeria was set to represent Africa in the boys’ U-19 and U-15 team events, having qualified as continental champions at the African Youth Championships in Lagos. The NTTF further noted: “Since our inability to participate is not a fault of NTTF, we hereby formally notify the ITTF and the host federation, Romania Table Tennis Federation, that NTTF will not be liable for any penalties or financial obligations arising from accommodation or hospitality reservations made in relation to this event.” Tayo urged ITTF to urgently intervene to prevent similar occurrences in the future, stressing that the visa refusal has disrupted Nigeria’s ambition of grooming another generation of world-class players.

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Oshodi’s Re-election as ITTF Vice President Thrills Sanwo-Olu, Abiru, Others

Wale busari04 mins

The re-election of Wahid Enitan Oshodi as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has drawn widespread commendation from prominent leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Senator Tokunbo Abiru, and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports, Anthony Adeboye. Oshodi was re-elected during the continuation of the ITTF Annual General Meeting (AGM) held online on Saturday, November 15, 2025. His return to the Executive Board was celebrated as a recognition of his exceptional leadership, deep knowledge of global sports administration, and unwavering commitment to advancing table tennis in Nigeria, Africa, and worldwide. In a congratulatory statement issued by Gboyega Akosile, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Governor described Oshodi’s re-election as a testament to his leadership qualities and hard work during his first term. Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “On behalf of my family, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I rejoice with a worthy citizen of our dear State, Wahid Enitan Oshodi, on his re-election as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF). Oshodi has distinguished himself at the state, national, continental, and international levels. His contributions to sports development, particularly table tennis, have been immense, and we are proud of his achievements. We believe he will continue to lift the fortunes of table tennis in Nigeria and Africa, raising the bar to compete globally.” Senator Tokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, also praised Oshodi’s achievement: “On behalf of the people of Lagos East Senatorial District, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to my dear brother and friend, Barrister Wahid Enitan Oshodi, on his well-deserved re-election. This remarkable victory exemplifies his distinguished leadership, competence, and unwavering commitment to the growth of table tennis worldwide.” Anthony Adeboye, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports, highlighted Oshodi’s consistency and integrity: “Your influence continues to uplift the standard of table tennis in Nigeria and inspire the next generation of African sports leaders. You have always been a shining example of excellence, and this new mandate further positions you to elevate our continent to even greater heights in the world of sports.” Oshodi, who also serves as President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF), will continue his role on the ITTF Executive Board for another four-year term (2025–2029), working alongside ITTF President Petra Sörling to advance the sport globally.

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Wahid Enitan Oshodi Re-Elected as ITTF Executive Vice President

Wale busari03 mins

Nigeria’s Wahid Enitan Oshodi has been re-elected as Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) during the continuation of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held online on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Additionally, Olabanji Oladapo, the former Secretary General of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), has been confirmed as a member of the ITTF Council following the ratification of the Council Members. Oshodi, who also serves as President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa), secured his re-election in the first round of voting contested by 15 candidates worldwide. He emerged among the top seven, alongside representatives from the United States, China, Turkey, Australia, Ecuador, Romania, and Jordan. Of the three African candidates; Oshodi, Egypt’s Alaa Meshref, and South Africa’s Hajera Kajee, Oshodi was the only one elected to the eight-member Vice President team. Oshodi and China’s Liu Guoliang are the only returning members from the outgoing executive board, while six newly elected officials will join the board for the first time. Oshodi will serve another four-year term (2025–2029) alongside ITTF President Petra Sörling, continuing to champion Africa’s representation at the global level. A seasoned sports administrator, legal practitioner, and civil engineer, Oshodi has held several leadership roles in Nigerian and African sports. He served as Lagos State Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development from 2011, organising the 2012 National Sports Festival and overseeing infrastructure development. As President of the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation from 2013, he promoted youth development and international competitiveness, hosting ITTF Challenger tournaments. Oshodi’s rise in continental leadership began in 2016 when he was elected Vice President of ITTF Africa (Western Region). He became Deputy President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) in 2021 and was elected President in 2024, with a focus on expanding access and participation in table tennis across Africa. With his re-election, Oshodi will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing the sport globally while strengthening Africa’s presence within the ITTF.

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Egypt, Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria Secure Spots for London 2026

Wale busari03 mins

Egypt, Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria Secure Spots for London 2026 By Bunmi Ogunyale African table tennis powerhouses Egypt, Nigeria, Tunisia, and Algeria have officially booked their places at the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships in London, United Kingdom, following dominant performances in their respective groups at the ongoing 2025 ITTF Africa Championships in Tunis. Egypt was the first men’s team to seal qualification, cruising past Togo and Côte d’Ivoire. Nigeria followed with emphatic 3-0 victories over Cameroon and South Africa in Group B. Morocco also advanced from the group after defeating both Cameroon and South Africa, setting up a decisive clash with Nigeria to determine the group leader. Algeria and host nation Tunisia completed the list of qualifiers by topping Groups C and D, respectively. In the women’s category, the pattern mirrored the men’s event, with Egypt, Nigeria, and Algeria securing their tickets to London. Joining them is Uganda’s young and promising squad, marking a significant milestone for the East African nation. From April 28 to May 10, 2026, London will host the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals, a historic edition commemorating 100 years since the founding of both the World Championships and the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) in the British capital. This centenary celebration will bring together 64 teams per gender. Of these, 52 will qualify through continental championships, 11 through world rankings (as of November 2025), and one automatic spot will be reserved for host nation England. The World Championships remain the pinnacle of global table tennis—a stage where legends are born and history is written. The countdown to London 2026 has begun, and the world’s best are preparing to converge for this once-in-a-century homecoming.

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African Stars Light Up Tunis for 2025 ITTF-Africa Championships

Wale busari05 mins

From October 12 to 19, the city of Tunis, Tunisia, will reverberate with the energy and talent of Africa’s finest table tennis players as the 2025 ITTF-Africa Championships get underway. Athletes from across the continent—East, West, North, Central, and South—have converged on the Tunisian capital, all vying for glory and coveted qualification spots for the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships in London, United Kingdom. While Nigeria’s top-ranked Quadri Aruna is notably absent, the tournament still boasts a star-studded lineup including Egypt’s Omar Assar, Algeria’s Mehdi Bouloussa, Tunisia’s Wassim Essid, Egypt’s Hana Goda, Nigeria’s Olajide Omotayo, and France-based Abdel-Kader Salifou. From the leadership of the Tunisia Table Tennis Federation (TTTF) to the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa), the spirit of the event is one of celebration and unity. TTTF President Samir Khelif expressed pride in hosting the prestigious event: “We’re honoured to be chosen once again to host this championship and deeply appreciate the trust of ITTF Africa. As always, we aim to provide warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere for all our guests.” ITTF Africa President Wahid Oshodi also praised Tunisia’s swift response in stepping up after Rwanda’s withdrawal: “We’re immensely grateful to the people of Tunisia for their unwavering support. Their readiness to host on short notice speaks volumes about their commitment to the sport. This championship is all about the players, and Tunisia has created the perfect environment for them to shine.” With youthful energy and national pride fueling their ambitions, Tunisia’s rising stars are ready to take on Africa’s best and prove they belong on the big stage. Leading the charge are 14-year-old Ela Saidi and 17-year-old Wassim Essid, key members of the Tunisian team competing at the eight-day tournament taking place at the Rades Multi-Purpose Hall in Tunis from October 12 to 19. Making her debut at the prestigious event, Saidi described the opportunity to play alongside her idols as a dream come true. “I’m so happy to be competing in my first African Championships, especially sharing the stage with stars like Hana Goda and Omar Assar,” she said. “It’s a huge honour, and I’ll give my best and perform to the highest level I can. Most importantly, I want to use this experience to grow as a player — facing top opponents will help me improve.” Essid, fresh off his victory in the boys’ U-17 singles at the WTT Youth Contender Tunis, sees the tournament as another chance to challenge the continent’s elite. “I’m not going to relax — playing at home means I’ll have the support of the crowd, and I’ll give my best as always,” he said. “It’s a big opportunity for Tunisia to host this event, and I hope we exceed expectations and make our country proud. We’d love to be part of the journey to London in 2026 through the team event.”

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