The table tennis event of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games begins on Thursday, August 29, with Nigeria’s eight-man squad eagerly aiming to secure medals under the leadership of head coach Nasiru Sule.
Comprising six men and two women, the team will compete in doubles, mixed doubles, and singles events. Nigeria has a remarkable track record in Paralympic table tennis, having clinched two gold and three bronze medals since their first victory in Atlanta in 1996.
Head coach Sule, who himself won a bronze medal in Atlanta, believes that the team’s extensive preparations in Nigeria and Germany have positioned them for success.
“I believe we have had one of the best preparations this year as we have been in training camp since June before traveling to Germany. This has provided ample time for us to work on our tactics for the games,” Sule stated confidently.
Recognizing the high level of competition at the upcoming Paralympic Games, Sule added, “There is no doubt that this will be the most competitive Paralympic Games since there are many talented players heading to Paris. However, we are fully prepared to face the challenge head-on, as becoming the best means defeating the best.”
Isamu Ogunkunle, the current African champion in Men’s Singles Class 4, aims to surpass his quarterfinal finish from Tokyo 2020. Reflecting on his previous experience, Ogunkunle said, “Tokyo was a valuable learning experience for me, as it was my first Paralympic outing, and I managed to reach the quarterfinals. This time around, I am well-prepared for Paris and fully aware that it won’t be an easy competition, much like it was in Tokyo.”
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