Quadri Aruna Reclaims Title as Africa’s Highest-Ranked Table Tennis Player
Nigerian table tennis player Quadri Aruna has reclaimed his title as Africa’s top-ranked player, moving up to 18th in the ITTF rankings, surpassing Egypt’s Omar Assar. His recent performances, particularly in WTT tournaments, have been pivotal for his rise, despite being the runner-up at the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup. Aruna’s next challenge is the WTT Contender Chennai, while Hana Goda remains Africa’s leading female player.
Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna has regained his position as Africa’s top-ranked table tennis player, overtaking Egypt’s Omar Assar, according to the latest ITTF Week 12 rankings. Aruna moved up from 19th to 18th place in the world, while Assar fell from 17th to 19th, marking Aruna as the continent’s leading player. Denmark’s Jonathan Groth has ascended to 17th, claiming Assar’s previous ranking.
Aruna’s rise in the rankings can be attributed to his consistent performances in various WTT tournaments this year, despite being the runner-up at the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup. He notably remains the only African male player to reach the semi-finals of the WTT Contender Doha, a significant achievement he first accomplished in 2023 and replicated in January 2025. His regular high-level performance enabled him to surpass Assar, who won the continental title by defeating Aruna in the Africa Cup final.
Looking ahead, Aruna is set to compete in the WTT Contender Chennai, scheduled in India from March 23 to March 30, as he seeks to further his global presence. In the women’s singles rankings, Egypt’s Hana Goda continues to hold the title of Africa’s top female player, rising to 26th in the world rankings, while her compatriot Dina Meshref remains in 33rd place as the continent’s second-best.
The global rankings illustrate China’s continued supremacy in table tennis, with Lin Shidong retaining his No. 1 position in the men’s singles. His compatriot, Wang Chuqin, remains second, while Japan’s Tomokazu Harimoto ascended to third after his semifinal appearance at the WTT Champions Chongqing. In the women’s singles, China’s Sun Yingsha maintains the top position after successfully defending her title at the same tournament.
Aruna’s resurgence to the No. 1 rank in Africa serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent in table tennis. He aims to build on this momentum during the upcoming WTT Contender Chennai, aspiring to enhance his accomplishments on the international stage.
In conclusion, Quadri Aruna’s ascent to the position of Africa’s top-ranked table tennis player underscores his exceptional skills and perseverance. With notable achievements in various international tournaments, Aruna’s journey reflects his commitment to elevating African table tennis. As he prepares for the WTT Contender Chennai, there is considerable anticipation regarding his potential to further enhance his global ranking. Meanwhile, Hana Goda continues to lead in the women’s category, showcasing the competitive spirit within African table tennis.
Original Source: www.brila.net
