The stage is set for the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos, with a host of global table tennis stars confirmed to compete in Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital from July 22 to 26.
Organisers have also announced an increase in the prize purse from $75,000 to $100,000, underscoring the tournament’s growing prestige on the international calendar.
Leading the charge in the women’s singles is Japan’s world No. 9, Hina Hayata, who will be making her debut in Lagos. The 24-year-old Olympic silver and bronze medallist is among the sport’s elite, known for her dynamic left-handed style and consistent podium finishes at World and Asian Championships. She arrives as the top-seeded player and a major contender for the title.
Joining her in the women’s field are reigning African champion Hana Goda of Egypt and France’s rising star Prithika Pavade, both of whom are expected to add flair and fierce competition to the draw.
In the men’s singles, Danish ace Anders Lind returns to Lagos in search of his maiden WTT title on Nigerian soil, while Croatian powerhouse Tomislav Pucar and Japanese prodigy Yuta Tanaka are also confirmed to compete.
Nigerian fans will be thrilled by the return of home favourite Quadri Aruna, Africa’s top-ranked player, who missed last year’s edition due to club commitments. He will be looking to thrill the local crowd and reclaim dominance on home turf.
Africa’s brightest junior talent, Tunisia’s Wassim Essid, is also among the anticipated participants in a tournament that promises to blend global star power with African excellence.
Tournament Director Kweku Tandoh expressed confidence in the event’s rising stature, saying, “We are committed to delivering a world-class experience. Our focus is not only to meet international standards but to innovate and elevate the tournament’s global appeal.”
Tandoh added that the mix of debutants and returning stars reflects growing interest in the Lagos leg of the WTT Contender Series.
The five-day event will feature competitions across five categories: men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Winners in each category will receive 400 valuable world ranking points, further solidifying the tournament’s role as a pivotal stop on the WTT calendar.
