Africa Cadet Champion, Taiwo Mati is ranked 8th in the cadet men’s single category following the release of the January 2020 ranking by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
In the ranking, Mati moved up two steps to remain the only African top cadet player in the world with 6350 points being his best ranking in his career.
2019 ITTF bronze medallist is ranked 59th in the junior (men’s single) category moving 44 place up with 2026 points while Taiwo Mati is currently occupying 311st position in the Senior Men’s Single.
The 2019 Nigeria U21 league gold medalist told www.aclsports.com that his current ranking in the cadet men’s single is an inspiration for him to put more effort in every tournament he attends in 2020.
He said the contract influenced by Africa number one player, Aruna Quadri gave him the confidence to perform more exploits.
Mati said, “I am the most excited person right now to be 8th in the Cadet men’s singles world ranking. Immediately I saw the rankings, joy erupted in my heart because I really worked hard and attended several International tournaments.
“What motivates me most is the contract I had with African Champion, Aruna Quadri. The contract makes me confidence whenever I am playing at any tournament because I have everything I need to practice leaving the ball in my court. I have the equipment and opportunity to practice harder everyday”.
The 2019 Africans Games men’s team silver medallist told www.aclsports.com that playing at some senior tournaments has given him more confidence.
He said, “I feel so accomplished because I ave been wanting to participate at the senior championship outside the country so it is like a dream come true. This also gives me more courage and confidence when I am participating in the junior championship because playing the senior championship gives me room to meet more top players”.
