by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF Africa Press Officer

Most notably the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games has been postponed; a decision which African players have applauded.

“I think the postponement of the Olympic Games will give the players time for preparation and my message to the players is for them to take care and stay safe, I hope to see you all soon”, Khaled Assar based in Denmark

Practice at home

“I am satisfied and agree with the decision of postponing the Olympics, as we are all really skeptical now about when everything could go back to normal and when we could again start our training and participation in tournaments.

I try to do exercises at home as well as practise table tennis with my brother at home. Let’s take all our precautions to stay safe and be patient. Also, there are plenty of other useful things we could do in that free time.” Dina Meshref based in Germany but now in Egypt

Gives more time

“Regarding the postponement of the Olympics, I feel sorry for that, especially if this COVID-19 business becomes over soon. However, if this situation extends beyond May, then it is better to be postponed as it will definitely give us more time to be ready and to improve the ranking that was disrupted.

“I try to do physical activities every other day, I have a table at home where I practise with my brother Mahmoud around three or four times a week to try and keep my form as much as I can during this confinement. I have high hopes and faith in God that all this will be over soon and hopefully with the lowest possible number of casualties. Let us try to invest this time in fruitful activities and more bonding with families”. Yousra Helmy based in Egypt

Health first

“Our health must come first and main priority should be given to our health, health is wealth. IOC decision to postpone Olympic Games is the best. I keep exercising daily and this is the best way to keep fit until everything is over, of course I am positive that this will end soon. Let’s be the best we can be. Stay hydrated, practise good hygiene and stay healthy. Stay safe.” Quadri Aruna based in Lisbon

Expected

”The postponement was expected, I will have more time to prepare for the Games. I hope this period will soon be over and wish every player across the globe stay safe.” Olajide Omotayo based in Genoa.