Lagos – There is no doubt that the quality possessed by Nigeria’s Segun Toriola is rare and the reason why players from the continent must take a cue from the `ambassador of table tennis’ in Africa.

According to the President, ITTF-Africa, Khaled El-Salhy who said this during the presentation of award to the seven-time Olympian at the 2016 ITTF Africa Senior Championships holding in Agadir, Morocco.

He said the Executive Council, ITTF-Africa paid tribute to Toriola as the first athlete in any sport in Africa to attend seven Olympic Games.

El-Salhy said the decision to honour Toriola was taken by the council for his giant strides in the world.

Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna hits a shot in his men’s singles qualification round table tennis match at the Riocentro venue during the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro on August 7, 2016. / AFP PHOTO

“It was the decision of the Executive Council to give such award to Segun Toriola, who is a legend of Table Tennis, not only in Africa.

“But also at the World, following his great achievement, being the first African to make seven appearances at the Olympic Games from 1992 to 2016.

“We also believe that he has the chance to break his own record by making it to Tokyo 2020 because of the quality he still possesses,’’ he said.

The president believed that Toriola would serve as a role model to young players in Africa with his 100 per cent commitment to the sport on and off the table.

“Toriola’s commitment to table tennis is 100 per cent and this is why he will remain an inspiration to young players in the continent.

“He is also an ambassador of Table Tennis when it comes to fair play.

“His excellent performances at every competition coupled with his humility are traits that singled him out among other players in Africa,’’ he said. (NAN)
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