Woodball: Uganda women team clinch 2026 world championship gold in Malaysia

Uganda women woodball team attained the world cup champions status.

This was after a 3-0 comprehensive victory over the hosts Malaysia during a finale at the University of Malaysia Perlis City Campus.

The team of Sanyu Mirembe, Joyce Nalubega, skipper Denise Nanjeru, Joan Mukoova, Shakira Nagudi, Christine Birungi, Florence Mukooya and Babirye Nalwoga did not lose any match from the quarterfinals to the final.

The East Africans defeated Hong Kong 3-0 in the quarterfinals before a similar victory over Chinese Taipei at the semi-final stage.

Captain Nanjeru lauded the teammates for the right mentality and character in the historic victory.

“I am very happy we are taking home the World Cup title, but that has been possible because of teamwork, and discipline,” Nanjeru remarked.

Meanwhile, the men’s side settled for bronze after a spirited display.

The male side had the likes of captain Thomas Khedi, Samson Rugongesa, Daniel Apita and Bridge Byamukama.

They had eliminated Hong Kong 2-1 in the quarterfinals before falling to eventual winners Indonesia 1-2 at the semi-final stage.

Indonesia smiled 3-0 past hosts Malaysia in the final.

National team coach Onesimus Atamba praised his players for handling the pressure of a fiercely contested tournament.

“It is not easy to be a world champion, and I thank the players who were focused and controlled the pressure because the games were very competitive and tight,” Atamba said.

Looking ahead, Atamba believes the team’s achievements will provide momentum for the remaining events.

“These victories are going to motivate these players tomorrow as they play the doubles and singles in the stroke competitions,” he added.

The Ugandan contingent also received encouragement from His Highness Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra, the Royal Prince of Perlis, who visited the team’s camp before the finals and urged the players to remain focused throughout the championship.