New Delhi, Jan. 31 -- Few individuals can accurately locate Togo, a West African nation known for its passion for football and situated adjacent to Ghana, on the tennis map. For 19 years, Togo was absent from the esteemed Davis Cup tournament, but made a notable return in 2022, leading to an impressive resurgence. Over the past two years, Togo has secured victories in 10 out of 11 Davis Cup matches, including a 3-2 triumph against Indonesia last year, followed by an extraordinary 4-0 win over Latvia on home soil, which propelled them into the World Group I play-offs.

A formidable challenge awaits them in India, who will benefit from the support of the home crowd; however, the determined Togo team is focused on achieving the 'history and recognition' that lies ahead.

The squad that arrived in the Indian capital on Monday consists of just four players, including captain Agnamba Ali and Ahialey Clement Mawuli, the president of their tennis association. Thomas Setodji is their sole ranked player, positioned at 1256, and the only member familiar with the Indian players, having encountered them on the tour while also serving as a travelling coach for French player Calvin Hemery, who is ranked 206. The remaining players are Liova Ayite Ajavon, Hod'abalo Isak Padio, and M'lapa Tingou Akomlo.

None of these athletes, however, train in Togo. In pursuit of better opportunities, they have relocated abroad. Three of them, including the captain, reside in the United States, while two are based in France. Nevertheless, they maintain regular communication via WhatsApp. When a Davis Cup tie is scheduled, they reunite, train together, and achieve victory.

Tennis, while we operate as a cohesive unit, fundamentally remains an individual sport. Each player possesses an understanding of their teammates and is aware of the preparations necessary for success. As we convene as a team, we engage in training and undertake the requisite activities to prepare for the upcoming competition. Additionally, I believe that these individuals, whether they choose to acknowledge it or not, maintain a robust dialogue among themselves, sharing jokes and various discussions within their groups. Despite our geographical differences, we have established a platform for these athletes to converse about the competition before our arrival here. Thus, we have effectively unified our efforts in preparation for the challenges ahead, as articulated by Agnamba.

The 50-year-old Davis Cup veteran may have appeared to present an effortless experience for these players, yet he acknowledged that the path has been anything but simple. Beyond seeking recognition on a prominent stage, they are driven by a desire to dispel the scepticism they face at home.

"You referenced soccer, but I must emphasize that Togo has consistently boasted a strong tennis team. The fact that we have not participated in the Davis Cup for the past 19 years is merely a coincidence. Our current endeavours are not surprising to us. However, we have achieved victories when others doubted our capabilities, and we have proven them wrong. Togo may be a small nation, yet we are home to exceptionally talented young athletes who are continually emerging. I believe we are on the brink of making history here, and I hope this weekend will mark that achievement," he stated.

When asked what has contributed to the strength of these players throughout their journey, Agnamba attributed it to possessing the "right attitude and team spirit."

This group of individuals has been together since 2022, and as he mentioned, it is fundamentally a competition between players. One must always anticipate that the opponent will perform at their best. Maintaining such an attitude ensures that one remains unshaken by surprises. These players have demonstrated their capability to compete against anyone, as evidenced by their results. With this mindset and the team's spirit, we are united in pursuit of a common goal, and I believe this attitude will propel us to success, he remarked.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by the visiting team, does Togo believe they can compete against a seasoned Indian squad? Steodji expressed that anything is possible in sports.

"It is a contest between individuals. We possess two arms and two legs. Therefore, we shall see what unfolds. We have previously triumphed over players with higher rankings than yours. So, we will see on Saturday. Some days, one can perform exceptionally well, while on others, the performance may falter," he stated. "It ultimately hinges on the day. When you step onto the court, if you believe in your ability to win, victory is attainable. Conversely, if you enter the court with a mindset of defeat, winning becomes impossible. This is our mentality, and perhaps this is why we find ourselves in this position now."

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!