by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor

The now 30 year old Nigerian is one of few who remain; a mark of her quality and also her loyalty.

She spoke to Olalekan Okusan, the ITTF-Africa Press Officer

“My targets at the World Championships are to play my very best, make myself and my country proud. Also I want to enjoy every bit of the atmosphere, relaxation and the best hot springs in Düsseldorf. I cannot really say how far I will go in the competition but I know if I happen to qualify from the group stage, I will definitely go further.

I think I played my best at the World Championship in 2015 in Paris, France. I played so well even despite losing early but I was satisfied with my performance.

I am super excited and I cannot just wait to get there because it is going to be an exciting tournament for most players. Also, we will be playing for the first time in a black surface DHS table tennis table.

I expect to do more this year because I am in my best shape. I have trained well even though training is always different and difficult sometimes. I always train and begin specific preparation at least six weeks prior to major tournament.

Training is heavy and hard work as it doesn’t give me any specific high or pleasure. However, it just has to be done and with all of this, I believe this year I am going achieve more.”