Accra, Ghana – Ahmad Abdul-Samad and Rachael Quarcoo delivered dominant performances at the 2026 All Ghana Badminton Open Championships, concluding over the weekend at the Borteyman Sports Complex. The two top seeds swept through the competition, solidifying their positions as Ghana’s leading badminton players.
The tournament, which attracted 123 players across a wide range of age and skill categories – from Under-15 to Veterans – showcased the growing depth of badminton talent within Ghana. Key dignitaries, including Ghana Olympic Committee President Richard Akpokavie and National Sports Authority Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, were in attendance, underscoring the event’s importance to the nation’s sporting landscape.
Abdul-Samad’s Commanding Display
Abdul-Samad lived up to his top billing, exhibiting “ruthless efficiency” throughout the men’s singles competition. He navigated the preliminary rounds without dropping a single set, consistently defeating his opponents. His path to the final included victories in all four preliminary matches, followed by comfortable wins in the quarter-finals and semi-finals.
In the championship match, Abdul-Samad faced Andy Amofa, ultimately proving too strong with a convincing 21-11, 21-17 victory. This win secured his position as the nation’s top-ranked men’s singles player and marked a successful defense of his title.
The top seed didn’t stop there. Partnering with Ebenezer Kwame Korampong, Abdul-Samad also claimed the men’s doubles title. The duo systematically dismantled their competition, culminating in a 21-15, 21-17 triumph over Leslie Addo and Andy Amofa in the final. This double victory highlighted Abdul-Samad’s versatility and skill.
Quarcoo’s Unchallenged Supremacy
Rachael Quarcoo mirrored Abdul-Samad’s success in the women’s events, demonstrating her continued dominance. She topped Group A in the singles competition, winning all three of her round-robin matches. A tightly contested semi-final against Miracle Ofuasia ultimately saw Quarcoo advance to the final.
In the final, Quarcoo delivered a statement performance, overpowering her long-time rival Jennifer Eduam with a decisive 21-7, 21-10 victory. This win underscored her supremacy in the women’s singles category.
Quarcoo’s ambition didn’t end with a singles title. Teaming up with Brempong Ofori-Acheampong, she secured the mixed doubles crown as well. The pair enjoyed an unbeaten run throughout the tournament, not dropping a set before the final. They capped off their campaign with a 21-19, 21-12 victory over Ruben Tetteh and Jessica Lomotey.
Additional Champions Crowned
Beyond the successes of Abdul-Samad and Quarcoo, several other players distinguished themselves at the tournament. Andy Amofa secured the Boys U-19 title with a 21-18, 21-16 win over Francis Obeng-Shang. In the Girls division, Alana Faith Sullo mounted a spirited comeback to defeat Margaret Amiokor Sarpei 19-21, 21-8, 21-7.
Further winners included Jennifer Eduam and Charity Naah in the Women’s Doubles, Mantram Saini in the Schools Boys Singles, Falak Thakwani in the Schools Girls Singles, Daniel Sahnoon Tenkorang and Mantram Saini in the Schools Boys Doubles, Elsa Messiah Darkoh and Falak Thakwani in the Schools Girls Doubles and Elsa Messiah Darkoh with Mantram Saini in the Schools Mixed Doubles.
Looking Ahead: International Opportunities
The All Ghana Badminton Open Championships served as a crucial stepping stone for many players, potentially boosting their chances of selection for upcoming international competitions. These include the 2026 JE Wilson Ghana International and Junior Championships, the Africa U-19 Championships, the World Junior Championships in Indonesia, and the 2027 African Games in Egypt. The tournament provided valuable competitive experience and exposure for Ghana’s rising badminton stars.
Ghana Badminton Association President, Evans Yeboah, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success, praising the support received from the government and sponsors. “Support from the governmental level has been resounding. The use of the facility, our sponsors and partners have always been with us, and we are grateful,” he said.
The 2026 All Ghana Badminton Open Championships not only showcased the talent within Ghana but also highlighted the growing momentum of the sport in the country. With continued support and investment, Ghana’s badminton players are poised to make a significant impact on the international stage.
The next major event for Ghanaian badminton players will be the 2026 JE Wilson Ghana International and Junior Championships. Details regarding dates and venue will be announced by the Ghana Badminton Association in the coming weeks.
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