The 2024 Tebel All Ghana Badminton Championship, held last weekend at the Borteyman Multipurpose Sports Complex, showcased an electrifying display of talent as elite players from across the country and various badminton clubs competed for national points, prize money, and rankings.
One of the most remarkable stories from the championship was that of 13-year-old Moslena Ama Koramah Adu from Agona Swedru in the Eastern Region.
Adu emerged as the star of the tournament, winning three gold medals in her first major career triumph. She claimed victory in the women's singles, and women's doubles alongside her experienced partner Prospera Nantuo, and the girls' under-19 category. Her exceptional performance earned her widespread acclaim and admiration.
Moslena expressed her excitement after her first victory in the senior team singles, saying, "I feel very excited because this is my first time winning the senior team singles, so I'm very happy. And I'm also happy for winning three gold medals."
Her coach and father, Moses Adu, a former badminton player, is determined to help her become a world champion.
"It is a big dream and I'm happy it has started today. Moslena is going to be a champion in the world one day. And I know Ghana is going to celebrate it," he said.
In the men's category, Ahmed Abdul Samad showcased his prowess by securing two gold medals and one silver. Samad triumphed in the men's doubles with Andy Amofa, clinched gold in the mixed doubles with Prospera Nantuo, and finished second in a gruelling men's singles match against Solomon Obiegue.
Reflecting on his recent success, Abdul Samad stated, "I've been really training towards this, and I can say hard work pays off. I'm really happy to have come this far and to win these medals as well."
He further explained, "Last year, I participated in fewer events, which allowed me to perform better in each. This year, I challenged myself to add a third event, and I'm happy I was able to win medals in all three."
The President of the Ghana Badminton Association, Evans Yeboah, praised the athletes for their dedication and the event's successful organization.
"It has been exciting," he remarked. "We haven't experienced this level of intense competition since the African Games, so it has been remarkable for us.
We've not only met our performance goals but exceeded some of them. Additionally, the support from sponsors, stakeholders, and the achievements of the athletes have been incredible."
The Tebel All Ghana Badminton Championship not only highlighted the depth of talent in the country but also set the stage for future competitions. Many of these athletes will soon compete in prestigious events such as the 2024 US Open, the 2024 African U-19 Championships, and the BWF World Junior Championships 2024 in China.