Uganda’s 67 Player Army Storms Lugogo As Olympic Ranking Battle Begins

Uganda has launched a major assault on the Uganda International Series, sending the biggest contingent to the four-day badminton tournament as 115 players from 14 countries battle for crucial world ranking points at Lugogo Indoor Stadium.

The tournament, which runs until October 4, carries significant weight for players targeting qualification points towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games and the 2027 World Championships, raising the stakes from the opening day.

Uganda has entered 67 players, giving the hosts the largest representation in a field featuring competitors from across Africa and beyond.

Thursday was reserved for the qualification stage, with eight players earning passage into the main draw, which begins on Friday with Round-of-32 action in the men’s singles, women’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

Uganda’s Fredrick Kadoli was among the early winners, cruising past compatriot Kotecha Harshil Hemal 21-9, 21-8 to secure his place in the next stage.

Malaysia’s Shenson Chia also advanced after dispatching Uganda’s Abu Althaf Ansari 21-8, 21-8, while Uganda’s Rahim Nsubuga booked his place with a 21-8, 21-13 victory over Muhammad Amaar.

There was further Ugandan success as Bruno Agaba defeated compatriot Rayan Mutesasira 21-16, 23-21 in a tightly contested qualification encounter.

The intensity is expected to rise on Friday when the main draw gets underway, with several Ugandan players facing international opposition.

In the men’s singles, Reagan Michael Nsubuga will take on Malaysia’s Yu Sheng, while South Africa’s Caden Kakora faces Uganda’s Ismail Mungufeni.

Uganda’s Shilton Tayebwa will also be tested by Algeria’s Adel Hamek as the hosts seek to maintain their presence deep into the competition.

The women’s singles draw will feature an all-Ugandan clash between Meble Namakoye and Rebecca Nakiyinji, while Algeria’s Yasmina Chibah takes on Uganda’s Dhruvi Sagar.

Uganda’s Olivia Nakajja will meanwhile face Nigeria’s Khadijah Opeyemi.

With qualification now complete, the tournament moves into its decisive phase, with the Ugandan contingent carrying home advantage and the opportunity to collect valuable international ranking points.

For the players, however, Lugogo offers more than just home glory. Every match represents an opportunity to build ranking momentum on the road towards the 2027 World Championships and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.