by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

It is very much a new venture for the Englishman.

“I decided to be part of the 2018 Nigeria Open for my individual goals. The Challenge Series are important tournaments for me and the Nigerian Open is part of that model. So it’s a good opportunity for me to try and perform and reach the later rounds. I haven’t heard that much to be honest about the Nigeria Open. I know it is held in Lagos; this year the tournament fits in with my schedule so I’m looking forward to taking part.” Sam Walker

Most certainly Sam Walker is a player to watch in Lagos, capable of competing at a very high level; memorably earlier this year in Halmstad against Japan, he beat Koki Niwa, presently listed at no.12 on the Men’s World Rankings.

“I’m looking forward to competing of course! However, I’ve never been to Nigeria before; I’m always excited to visit new countries! It will be my second time in Africa, I played in the World Junior Championships in Morocco in 2014 when I was younger but it will be my first time in Nigeria. My target for the tournament is to perform at my level and then we see what the outcome is. It will be the first tournament of my season and so it’s just important for me to perform at the level that I know I can play; then I know I have a chance to challenge for the title.”

Currently in the Men’s Doubles event, he is no.5 seed.