WTT Contender: Korea’s Seongil, Gyuhyeon others win qualifying round 1

By Damilola Nubi

 

As the World Table Tennis Contender preliminary rounds served off Monday, Jang Seongil of Korea, defeated Akinwale Fagbamila 3-1 in the qualifying round one of the men’s singles.

 

Seongil, who defeated Fagbamila in the best of seven games, noted that he was a bit nervous at the start of the game but regained his confidence as the game wore on.

 

“I was a bit nervous initially but I later got used to the game and everything seemed fine for me in the match,” he said.

 

Also, Park Gyuhyeon from Korea defeated Manush Shah of Indian in the best of seven games 3-0.

Felix Lartey lost  3-0 to Peng Wang-Wei Taipie in the qualifying round one of men’s singles.

He noted that coming to Nigeria was a good development for him.

“The match was quite good and I am happy coming back to Nigeria.

“We don’t have this kind of tournament in Africa. I am grateful for the chance to play because Nigeria are experienced when it comes to staging a top class event.

“I played quite well but you cannot win all the time and I hope to return to training to correct my mistakes,” he said.

Peter Hribar of Slovak defeated Joshua Oladiran of Nigeria, 3-2 also in the men’s singles qualifying round one.

Hribar, who said he was visiting Nigeria for the first time, noted that the weather was a hotter than what he was used to.

“It’s my first time in West Africa and it is hotter than I expected.

“I am still adapting. Circumstances are different from what I am used to in Europe, but I managed to win my first match and I hope I can win more matches.

“I must say this is a good feeling winning, otherwise I could pack my things and go back home but I am still alive in the tournament.

“Am looking forward to playing some more, or better even, and winning some medals,” he said.

Rilwan Akanbi defeated Adebowale Akinyemi both from Nigeria 3-0 also in the men’s singles qualifying round one.

He said he was excited winning his first match, he hoped that he would be well prepared to defeat his next opponent.

Martin Anders of Denmark defeated James Marfo of Ghana 3-0 in the qualifying round one of men’s singles.

He said he loved the hospitality he received from Nigerians.

“It’s my first time in Africa. Being in Lagos is a little bit more humid than I am used to and I feel like the people are happy and are very nice.

 

“I am happy to win my first match because first match is not always easy.

 

“I am satisfied going into the second match. I just hope to play well and somehow find my game. And if the result comes, then it comes but, so let’s see,” he said.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the WTT Contender series hold from June 12 to 18.

 

(NAN)