- Nigerian table tennis icon Offiong Edem has announced her retirement after a 20-year international career
- Edem, a 5-time Olympian, is one of Nigeria's most decorated table tennis players, having won multiple gold medals at the African Championships and represented Nigeria at three Olympics
- She plans to mentor young talents, inspiring them to surpass her achievements while remaining committed to the table tennis community
Nigerian table tennis veteran Offiong Edem has officially retired from international competition after an illustrious 20-year career that saw her become one of the most decorated athletes in the country’s sporting history.
The 37-year-old announced her decision via social media, expressing gratitude for her journey while pledging to inspire the next generation of table tennis stars,
“A proud 5-time Olympian, I bid farewell to the national team, it’s time to explore new horizons and nurture young table tennis talents, inspiring the next generation to surpass my achievements.”
Offiong Edem’s tennis career
Edem’s career was marked by appearances at multiple Olympic Games, including Athens 2004, London 2012, and Tokyo 2020, where she represented Nigeria with pride and excellence. A native of Calabar, she reached a career-high world ranking of 89 and was a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s dominance in African table tennis.
Her extensive list of accomplishments includes gold medals at the African Championships and standout performances at the African Games and Commonwealth Games. Known for her consistency, Edem played a crucial role in maintaining Nigeria’s dominance in team events across the continent.
“From humble beginnings in Bayside to international recognition, I thank God for the talent and opportunities that brought so much,” she shared.
Her farewell statement also extended heartfelt gratitude to family, friends, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), and the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), as she expressed a commitment to empowering young athletes.
Edem’s departure leaves a lasting legacy, not just in her trophy-laden career but in her impact on the sport's growth in Nigeria. Her success inspired many young athletes and sprouted up Nigeria’s reputation as a force in African table tennis.
As Edem transitions into mentoring, the sport’s future looks bright under her guidance. Her parting words encapsulated her journey,
“I bow out and remain committed to the table tennis community, empowering young stars. Once again, thank you all for your support. Peace and love.”
Offiong Edem may have stepped off the competitive stage, but her legacy will undoubtedly outlast her years of service in Nigerian and African table tennis for years to come.
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