Cynthia Kwabi defends crown at 2026 Sheroes Open

The Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) successfully concluded the 2026 Sheroes Open Championship after three consecutive Saturdays of high-intensity competition at the DG Hathiramani Hall.

The tournament, which attracted a blend of emerging talents and elite players, delivered thrilling encounters, dramatic comebacks and clear signs of growth among participants. From the quarter-finals to the grand finale, fans were treated to top-quality table tennis marked by resilience, tactical brilliance and competitive spirit.

Defending champion Augustina Badioo retained her Open Day title after edging Eva Adom Amankwah 4–3 in a closely contested match. However, the spotlight of the Love Edition once again belonged to Ghana’s finest, Cynthia Kwabi.

Kwabi demonstrated her championship pedigree throughout the competition. In one of the most dramatic matches of the tournament, she staged a remarkable comeback from 3–0 down to defeat Emerald Bortey 4–3 in the quarter-finals. Eva Adom Amankwah also made headlines after narrowly overcoming two-time champion Augustina Badioo 4–3, while Emmanuella Yaa Kyere cruised past Hilda Agbottah 4–0. Joanita Borteye sealed her semi-final berth with a hard-fought 4–3 victory over Bernice Borquaye.

The semi-finals saw Joanita overpower Emmanuella 4–1, while Kwabi delivered a commanding 4–1 win over Eva Adom Amankwah in a clash widely described as a battle of experience and determination.

The final, a repeat of the Love Edition showdown, lived up to expectations as Kwabi faced Joanita Borteye in a pulsating contest. The duo thrilled spectators with rapid rallies, aggressive attacking play and disciplined defending.

Despite visible signs of fatigue, Kwabi relied on her experience and composure to secure a dramatic 4–3 victory, successfully defending her title for the second time.

Speaking after the match, Joanita acknowledged the decisive role of experience. She admitted the contest was tough, noting that Kwabi’s deep understanding of her style of play gave the defending champion an edge. Though disappointed, she expressed optimism, pointing to her improved performance compared to their previous encounter.

An elated Kwabi credited her mental strength for the turnaround in her quarter-final clash and her eventual triumph. She revealed that after falling 3–0 behind against Emerald, she shifted her mindset to focus on winning at least a point — a decision she said sparked her comeback.

Kwabi also commended the improved standard of competition and praised the organisers for putting together a successful championship, emphasising its importance in preparing players for upcoming international assignments, including the World Championship.

The 2026 Sheroes Open once again highlighted the depth of talent within Ghana’s women’s table tennis and reinforced GTTA’s commitment to developing the sport.