Khoi Khoi, Ridoy claim singles crowns

There may have been little noise in the gallery of the Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Indoor Stadium yesterday, but the energy on the tables was unmistakable as Khoi Khoi Marma and Mohutasin Ahmed Ridoy were crowned women's and men's singles champions in the Federation Cup Table Tennis tournament.

In the women's singles, promising Khoi Khoi faced experienced national player Sonom Sultana Soma in a match that stretched to a gripping fifth set. Khoi Khoi ultimately triumphed 3-2 (11-4, 9-11, 11-4, 9-11, 11-7), claiming the Federation Cup title for the first time.

"Actually, it was a tough fight against Soma apu, but I gained confidence after beating number one Mou in the semifinals," Khoi Khoi said, reminding that she had also defeated Soma in the women's team event.

Despite her third title in the last four competitions, Khoi Khoi remained humble, praising her seniors for their experience. "I have yet to reach the level of Soma apu and Mou... I've followed them since childhood."

On the other hand, the men's final was far more one-sided, with former national champion Ridoy dominating current champion Ramhim Lian Bawm 3-0 (11-6, 11-8, 11-3).

"Yes, I am a bit more serious now compared to the past because I am trying to hold the position I gained before," Ridoy said. "Ramhim is a really good player but he looked a bit tired in the final and couldn't carry his semifinal performance through, which made the contest easier for me."

Both champions now shift focus to the Islamic Solidarity Games in Saudi Arabia, starting November 7, with the team scheduled to leave Bangladesh on November 5. The Federation Cup, held after a four-year gap, provided an ideal platform for preparation.

"A good number of strong teams will compete at the Games, and we will try to produce better results than the last edition, where we reached the quarterfinals," Ridoy said, adding that the team aims to win a medal in any category -- team, doubles, singles, or mixed doubles.

Khoi Khoi echoed the sentiment, saying her Federation Cup performance has boosted her confidence for her first appearance at the Islamic Solidarity Games. Soma also expressed optimism, noting that the competitive matches in the Federation Cup have strengthened the squad's determination to deliver a medal, whether from the men's or women's events.