Table Tennis: Ghana’s number one seed James Marfo set to begin professional career in France

Ghana’s number one table tennis player and 2025 Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) Table Tennis Player of the Year, James Marfo, is set to begin his professional career in France, where he will combine a one-year training program at the Hennebont Table Tennis Centre with participation in the French league.

The opportunity marks an important milestone in Marfo’s development, offering him the chance to sharpen his technical abilities, gain valuable international exposure, and compete in a demanding environment as he seeks to raise his game to the next level.

As he prepares for the transition, key figures in Ghanaian table tennis have congratulated Marfo on the opportunity while urging him to remain disciplined, humble, and focused on making the most of the investment in his future.

Chairman of the Ghana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), Mawuko Afadzinu, has encouraged the player to view the opportunity as a stepping stone to even greater possibilities, stressing the importance of hard work, humility, and commitment to his long-term ambitions.

These were the inspiring words of Afadzinu during a visit by a delegation from the KIDSFORKIDS FOUNDATION. The delegation, which included Ishmael Abraham Armah, John Baiden, and James Marfo, visited the chairman following the opportunity for James to travel to France for professional table tennis training. The visit also provided James with an opportunity to personally express his appreciation to Afadzinu for his support, encouragement, and contribution to his development.

“Let this opportunity awaken you to greater possibilities. Always remember where you are coming from and let that be a source of inspiration as you pursue your purpose,” Afadzinu advised.

He further urged Marfo to remain focused on his goals, noting that strong performances and continued development would open doors to opportunities with clubs in other established European table tennis leagues, including Portugal and Germany.

For Michael Danquah, Marfo’s manager, the impending move represents the culmination of years of commitment, sacrifice, and belief in the player’s potential. 

Reflecting on their journey, Danquah expressed pride in Marfo’s progress while acknowledging the contributions of the coaches, institutions, and individuals who have supported his development.