TheCable

For two editions of the ITTF Challenge Nigeria Open, Dina Meshref has been a runner-up but she’s hoping the third time will be a charm.

The 2017 ITTF Africa Cup champion says she determined to avert the “misfortune” of finishing second, two years in a row.

Meshref will face stiff opposition in Lagos as this year’s tournament has amazing talents on offer, including two former champions of the ITTF World Tour.

“I am really looking forward to the tournament because I have been unfortunate having played in the women’s and U21 singles finals in 2014 which I lost,” said the Egyptian player.

“Also in 2015, I lost in the women’s singles final as well. My only consolation was winning the U-21 title. But I am determined to win the title this year.

“Sometimes the weather in Lagos is not friendly but the atmosphere in the hall is something else.

“It is the delight of every player to play in such atmosphere as the fans make it more exciting and inspiring.

Touching on the importance of the tournament, she said, “Nigeria Open has given most African players the opportunity to showcase their talents as well as garner world ranking points.

“This is good and I am hoping every African player will avail themselves of this rare opportunity to have such tournament being hosted in the continent.

“There is no doubt that the host country – Nigeria has potential in the sport and they can make use of the tournament to groom more stars like Aruna Quadri.”

The championship serves off on August 9 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos, Nigeria.