by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

Apart from aiming for a better outing this year, Antoine Harchard is looking forward once again to experiencing the exciting atmosphere inside the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.

“I first heard about the excitement of the tournament in 2016 after watching the mesmerising dancing step of Finland’s Benedek Olah when he emerged the winner at the 2016 edition of Nigeria Open. I decided to return this year because it will afford me the opportunity to have a good result. I felt really great last year.” Antoine Hachard

The Frenchman is clearly delighted to return to Lagos.

“Last year’s edition of the Nigeria Open was well organised and it was a very special atmosphere because the crowd was totally involved during the matches. I love this kind of experience. This made me to play well and I am looking forward to same experience this year.” Antoine Hachard.

The 24 year old is no stranger to Africa but clearly Lagos has a special feeling.

“Last year was not my first visit to Africa because I played in several competitions in Tunisia and Morocco as a junior player but my experience in Lagos was quite unique. My targets this year are to retain the Men’s Doubles title as well as reach semi-final or final of the Men’s Singles event.” Antoine Hachard

In the Men’s Doubles event Antoine Hachard will partner Benjamin Brossier.