As a stalwart in the elite echelons of table tennis on the continent Elizabeta SAMARA from Romania has been a consistent presence at the Europe Top 16 Cup missing the event only once in the last 15 years. The 2024 China Construction Bank Europe Top 16 Cup set to take place in Montreux on Saturday January 20th and Sunday January 21st marks her 14th appearance.
In the previous year Elizabeta secured the ninth position in the standings. Notable performances include a third-place finish in Montreux in 2018 a sixth-place finish in 2019 and a fifth-place finish in 2020. Additionally in 2016 in Gondomar SAMARA achieved a commendable fourth place. Her debut in Dusseldorf in 2009 saw her finish in the fifth position.
As the table tennis world anticipates another thrilling season we had the privilege of catching up with Elizabeta SAMARA one of the sport’s inspirational figures.
When asked about her current form Samara expressed enthusiasm stating:
“My current shape is quite good. I dedicated considerable time to practice in December and focused on maintaining fitness. It’s essential to be in peak physical condition especially considering the fierce competition in the top ranks.”
Reflecting on her achievements in 2023 Samara singled out some standout moments saying:
“The year exceeded my expectations. Securing bronze in the European Games for singles and clinching the team title were significant accomplishments. Winning silver in Malmö and a memorable match against CHENG Meng from Grand Smash gave me a boost of confidence.”
Discussing the competition within the Top 16 Samara emphasized the high level of skill among all players.
“I think all the players in the Top 16 are good and pose a threat regardless of their ranking. It’s the Top 16 where anyone can beat anyone. Each match is a challenge and that’s what makes it exciting for both players and fans.”
Regarding her goal for the Top 16 SAMARA’s passion for the sport was evident.
“My goal is usual; I enjoy coming to play in this prestigious tournament every year which takes place in my favorite country and city Montreux. The goal is to perform at my best and make every moment count.”
Looking ahead to her aspirations for 2024 Elizabeta outlined her objectives.
“My goal for 2024 is to stay fit and healthy. Qualifying with the team for Paris 2024 is a top priority and reaching the final stage is the ultimate aim. I want to get closer and closer to the medal contributing to the success of the team.”
The 2024 China Construction Bank Europe Top 16 Cup in Montreux will also feature other top-seeded players such as Ying HAN Ying of Germany Bernadette SZOCS of Romania (2018 titleholder) Nina MITTELHAM of Germany (2021 winner) Sofia POLCANOVA of Austria Jia Nan YUAN of France Linda BERGSTROM of Sweden Prithika PAVADE of France Natalia BAJOR of Poland Xia Lian NI Jieni SHAO and Fu YU of Portugal Tatiana KUKULKOVA and Barbora BALAZOVA of Slovakia Maria XIAO of Spain and Rachel MORET.
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