Black Loopers Secure Historic Qualification for 2026 ITTF World Championships in London
Ghana’s women’s national table tennis team, the Black Loopers, have booked their place at the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships in London, marking a triumphant return to the global stage after years of absence.
Their qualification came through a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Angola at the ITTF-Africa Championships in Tunis, Tunisia — a tournament that doubled as the continental qualifier for next year’s centennial World Championships.
After a difficult start to the competition, which included a defeat to African giants Egypt, the Black Loopers showcased immense determination and resilience to bounce back when it mattered most.
In a dramatic qualifying tie against Angola, Ghana staged a remarkable comeback from two matches down. Cynthia Kwabi opened the contest with a narrow 2–3 loss to Ruth Tavares, and Eva Adom-Amankwah followed with a 1–3 defeat to Albino Isabel, putting Ghana in a precarious position.
However, Joanita Borteye reignited the team’s hopes with a dominant 3–0 win over Sousa Kailane, before Kwabi returned in superb form to dispatch Albino Isabel 3–0, leveling the score at 2–2. In the decisive match, Eva Adom-Amankwah held her nerve in a tense five-set thriller, edging Ruth Tavares 3–2 to seal Ghana’s historic qualification.
The result ensured Ghana’s second-place finish in their group, earning them a coveted continental slot for London 2026.
The qualification is particularly significant as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the ITTF World Championships, adding symbolic weight to Ghana’s return to the world stage.
The Black Loopers will now turn their attention to preparations for London 2026, as they aim to make a strong impression at the centennial edition of the world’s most prestigious table tennis tournament.
