In brief
Senegalese table tennis player Marieme Diallo and other African athletes trained in China, improving technique and confidence ahead of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, which marks Africa’s first participation in a Youth Olympics.
Dakar, Senegal – In preparation for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, Senegalese table tennis star Marieme Diallo and other African athletes have returned from intensive training camps in China, where they sharpened their skills under Chinese coaches.
The camps, part of the China‑Africa Year of People‑to‑People Exchanges, took place in Changsha city in Hunan province and focused on disciplines such as table tennis, wushu, changquan, and taijiquan. Athletes praised the Chinese training methods and facilities, noting the dedication and consistency of their Chinese counterparts.
"We can keep the ball in play much longer than usual because they taught us the proper techniques," Diallo told Xinhua.
Diallo, 16, highlighted her improved consistency after training with the Senegalese Table Tennis Federation coach Marie Fara Mendy, who accompanied her to China.
"What impressed me most was the rigor, discipline and sports facilities. I was also impressed by the attention paid to technical details, the volume of ball practice and the role played by sparring partners," Mendy said.
Mendy also noted the emphasis on physical conditioning, long training sessions lasting four to five hours, and the patience and kindness of Chinese coaches despite language barriers.
Both the players and coaches reported gains in technical aspects such as serves, returns, backhand consistency and footwork, as well as mental confidence. The athletes returned home "highly motivated" and approach the Youth Olympics with confidence and humility, aiming to represent Senegal and Tunisia proudly in front of their home crowds.
This initiative comes as Africa prepares for its first Youth Olympic event, with athletes eager to showcase progress and foster cross‑continental sporting ties.
