In the last four years, Egypt’s Dina Meshref has claimed most of the titles in the women’s singles of African competitions and this has also put her on the global stage where she had competed in the last four ITTF Women’s World Cup.

As the only African female player to be ranked in top 60 in the world, the America University of Egypt (AUE) graduate is eager to remain on top in the continent and hoping again to claim the title when the 2019 ITTF Africa Cup serves off in Lagos on August 3 to 5.

A determined Dina Meshref said: “I will just try to give my best as I am trying to prepare well for the competition.”

Aware of the challenge in Lagos, she said: “Of course it won’t be easy in Lagos. I expect all players to be very well prepared for such an event, especially that it’s a few days before another important event (The 2019 All African Games in Morocco). I consider all players competing in the event as my potential rivals and strong competition.”

For Dina Meshref, Lagos the commercial nerve centre is a unique venue for table tennis. Her words: “It’s actually very exciting to compete in Lagos, as there are always lot of spectators and fans who really admire the sport, which makes players excited to get out their best.”

Echoing her decision not to relinquish her title, the Egyptian said: “I really hope I could win the title because it is very important to me, as it serves as qualification for the Women’s World Cup, which is of course one of the most prestigious events of the year.”