Day-4: Former Paralympic champion, Florian van Acker, blames humidity for losing Table Tennis semi-final match.

By Mousumi Mazumdar

Florian van Acker was disappointed with the humid weather here at the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, which he claims cost him the chance of progressing to the Finals. Florian competed against Australia’s Samuel von Einem who won 3-2.

“I was playing fine until the second match, but then I started feeling the humidity which affected my grip as I was sweating a lot and started to get under pressure.” said van Acker.

“I would have played better but the weather got to me today. My friends from Belgium did warn me about this but I did not think it will be a problem, but I believe them today.”

The player may have settled for Bronze today but he has already made up his mind for Gold in Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

On the other hand, French player, Lucas Creange was excited to win his first medal at the Paralympic games. “I am very happy that I won the Bronze medal it is very important for me because I lost in the quarterfinals in Rio 2016.” Creange said.

My objective now is to participate in the World Championships and prepare for the upcoming Virtus 2023 Global Games, Vichy and Paris 2024.” He also adds for the young aspiring athletes to “just get into the sport, keep practicing and participating.”

In the Final match for Class-11 category, Sam von Einem will play against Peter Palos (HUN) tomorrow afternoon.

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