Nigeria, Egypt pick ITTF World Youth Champs tickets

Nigeria and Egypt have secured their spots at the 2026 ITTF World Youth Championships in Istanbul, Turkey. Both nations emerged victorious in the team events at the Africa Youth Championships held in Accra, Ghana.

Egypt's U-15 boys and girls teams, alongside their U-19 girls' squad, earned the continent's representation. Nigeria's U-19 boys' team completed the African contingent for the prestigious global event, scheduled for November 21-28.

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I am particularly impressed with the outcome of this year’s tournament. More teams and players took part, making the competition tougher and more exciting. I can see significant improvement across all teams, especially from lesser-known sides whose players added to the competitiveness.

Alfred Bagueka, Deputy President of ITTF Africa, noted the increased competitiveness of the championship. "I am particularly impressed with the outcome of this year’s tournament. More teams and players took part, making the competition tougher and more exciting," he stated. Bagueka observed significant improvement across all teams, including lesser-known sides.

Looking ahead to the World Youth Championships, Bagueka acknowledged the progress but emphasized the challenge for African players to ascend the global rankings. He recalled the success of players like Omar Assar and Quadri Aruna but questioned the current presence of African players in the world's top 20. "We must redouble our efforts to ensure our players reach that level. I am hopeful that these young talents can break through at the world stage," he urged, highlighting the need for continued development.

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In the last five years, we have had Omar Assar and Quadri Aruna among the best in the world. But lately, how many African players are in the top 20 globally? We must redouble our efforts to ensure our players reach that level. I am hopeful that these young talents can break through at the world stage.