by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer

A realist, the 28 year is well aware that he faces a daunting task but as the tournament moves ever closer he is in a positive frame of mind.

“My preparation is going well; I am training hard to achieve my goal in Budapest. I am really motivated for this competition. I am mentally and physically prepared for the big day.” Allan Arnachellum

Budapest is the immediate goal but for Allan Arnachellum there is another goal, Mauritius will host the 2019 Indian Ocean Games later in the year in Port Louis, the same city as staged the 2018 Africa Senior Championships.

“My goal is to qualify from the group. I know it won’t be easy as we have good players around in every group. I intend to put up a good performance and improve my world ranking. Also the tournament serves as a good preparation for us for the Indian Ocean Games which will be held in Mauritius in July 2019.” Allan Arnachellum

In Budapest the task is to gain experience and to enjoy the experience; in Port Louis it is secure a place on the podium.

“Playing at the World Championship has been a very good experience for me; this will be my third participation, having played in 2013 in France as well as in the Team Championships in Malaysia. The tournaments afforded me the chance to see all the best players in the world performing live. My goal is to qualify from the group in Budapest.” Allan Arnachellum

Presently Allan Arnachellum is named at no.403 on the men’s world ranking.