NIGEL Bryan, Guyana’s table tennis stalwart, is back on the international scene, diving headfirst into the deep end at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Star Contender event in Chennai.
This isn’t just another tournament; it’s a statement. Bryan, a Caribbean legend, is signalling his return, eyes firmly set on leading Guyana’s charge in major international competitions.
His opening bout? A baptism of fire against Yiu Kwan, a player who’s been making waves, recently stunning Japan’s world No. 3, Tamokazu Harimoto, and boasting wins over Chinese legend Xu Xin.
While Bryan ultimately fell in straight sets (11-3, 11-6, 11-8), after a period of international absence, Bryan showcased flashes of the brilliance that made him a household name back home.
He found his rhythm as the match went on, even throwing down some impressive counter-offensive shots against Kong’s relentless attacks.
This Chennai trip isn’t just about Bryan, as Junior talent Krystian Sahadeo is also there and participation is a direct result of a powerful partnership between the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), the University of Jain, and the National Sports Commission.
This scholarship is a strategic investment in Guyana’s sporting future. Athletes and coaches from six disciplines are getting access to cutting-edge training, scientific coaching methods, and high-performance environments.
And the journey doesn’t end in Chennai. Bryan and Sahadeo are staying on for an intensive training camp, further sharpening their skills and gaining invaluable experience.