TheCable

Omar Assar says he’s determined to reclaim his title at the 2017 edition of the ITTF Challenge Nigeria Open.

The Egyptian says he was unable to make the tournament last year as a result of his club’s fight for survival in the French league.

“I cannot wait to return to Lagos this year because last year, it was a bit tight for me as my club had two crucial matches to beat the drop in the French league,” he said.

“It was the same situation that affected Aruna Quadri as he could not also make it to the tournament last year.

“But this year, I cannot wait to come to Lagos again as I am eagerly looking forward to reclaim my title from anyone that is holding forth to it.

Assar, who lost 3-4 to Aruna Quadri at the 2017 ITTF Africa Cup, described the atmosphere at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of Teslim Balogun as players’ delight.

“I cannot compare the atmosphere in Lagos to anywhere in the world because the fans are always there to cheer the players. They always want to enjoy the matches regardless of who is playing,” the 2015 African games gold medallist said.

“The vibes coupled with the applause from them most time inspire players to always want to give their best and I am looking forward to this situation again.

“The Lagos fans are awesome and I cannot wait to arrive.”

Assar is the most successful player in the history of the ITTF Challenge Nigeria Open.