by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

Notably in the Kenyan capital city, after finishing in second place in his group, losing to Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna; at the quarter-final stage he beat the latter’s colleague, the living legend, Segun Toriola before losing in the penultimate round to Egypt’s Omar Assar, the eventual champion.

In the play-off match for third place, he experienced defeat at the hands of Ahmed Ali Saleh, like Omar Assar from Egypt.

“My target is to aim for the medal stage and perform very well just like I did in Kenya early this year. I must also admit that it is not going to be easy but I will try my best to make it possible. There is good level of play in Africa now but I will try to perform well. The standard of any competition in Africa now is getting better with every competition because African players are improving at world level. The African Table Tennis Federation is now paying attention to players which is very important to bring out the best in the players.” Saheed Idowu

Success in Nairobi but in Lagos for the Nigeria born star at the 2018 ITTF Challenge Seamaster Nigeria Open, it was a second round defeat at the hands of the host nation’s Kazeem Makanjuola.

Presently, Saheed Idowu, is preparing for the new Portuguese League season and is in a confident mood as the tournament in Mauritius approached.

“It is my job and I must always be ready for every tournament; this one will not be an exception in terms of my preparation. I am fully ready for the Championship.” Saheed Idowu

Most certainly, Saheed Idowu is a name to note.