by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF- Africa Press Officer
Lining up alongside Judith Acheampong and Augustina Baidoo, a 3-0 defeat was experienced at the hands of Mauritius, Matilda Fodu losing to Nandeshwaree Jalim (11-9, 11-7, 12-10), the silver medallist at the immediate preceding ITTF World Junior Circuit tournament
Defeat but later when facing Congo Democratic, a 3-0 win was recorded, Matilda Fodu overcoming Ruth Ntela (11-5, 11-4, 11-8). Impressive but turn the clock back to the Ghana Junior and Cadet Open; note the result against Diya Parag Chitale in the junior girls’ singles event. She gave the gold medallist, the most severe test of anyone, she won the opening two games, before losing the next four (9-11, 9-11, 11-5, 11-9, 11-3, 11-7).
However, the 15 year old has a dilemma, should she choose football or table tennis?
A student of Keta Senior High School in the Vottal Region of Ghana, in addition to table tennis she has been invited to attend a national under 17 year football camp.
“I started sport early in life and I used to compete in volleyball, basketball, handball, football and table tennis but when I discovered I cannot do all of them, I had to settle for football and table tennis. I got a call-up for the Ghana under 17 football team camp but I could not make the team because I was too young. I took solace in table tennis.” Matilda Fodu
A natural competitor, Matilda Fodu is determined to follow a career in sport.
“I want to play as a professional be it in table tennis or football. I am so excited that I am part of the table tennis national junior team; it is a great honour to represent my country in an international competition. However, I am still hoping that I can make the under 17 football team at major tournaments.” Matilda Fodu
Undoubtedly Matilda Fodu is benefitting from the Accra experience.
“I now have a firm belief that I can do well in sports and being my first competition in table tennis, I have been able to compete against the best in Africa. I just need to redouble my efforts and hope for the best in football and table tennis.” Matilda Fodu
