Nigerian table tennis sensation, Quadri Aruna, has once again cemented his place as Africa’s best, reclaiming the No. 1 spot on the continent in the latest International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) rankings. In the world rankings released on March 18, 2025, Aruna surged to 18th place globally with 1,290 points, overtaking Egypt’s Omar Assar, who dropped to 19th with 1,250 points.
This achievement is a testament to Aruna’s relentless pursuit of excellence, unwavering determination, and his ability to compete at the highest level despite facing tough opposition from African and global contenders. His rise comes on the heels of an impressive run in World Table Tennis (WTT) tournaments, where he showcased exceptional skill, resilience, and consistency against some of the world’s finest players.
Although Aruna finished as the runner-up at the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup, his remarkable performances in international tournaments played a crucial role in securing his place at the top. The Nigerian star made history as the only African male player to reach the semifinals of the WTT Contender Doha, repeating his 2023 feat earlier this year. This outstanding achievement highlights his continued dominance on the international stage and his ability to raise the bar for African table tennis.
Born and raised in Oyo State, Aruna has long been an ambassador for Nigerian and African table tennis. His career is marked by groundbreaking moments, including being the first African player to reach the quarterfinals of the Olympic Games in table tennis, a feat he accomplished at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Over the years, he has remained a formidable force, using his experience and world-class technique to challenge and defeat some of the sport’s biggest names.
As Aruna continues to elevate Nigerian and African table tennis on the global stage, his next goal will be to break into the world’s top 10 and secure major titles at upcoming international competitions. His success serves as an inspiration to young African players, proving that with hard work, discipline, and determination, they can compete with the best in the world.
His recent feat has drawn widespread praise from fans, sports analysts, and the Nigerian sporting community. Many see his latest ranking as a beacon of hope for the future of African table tennis, reinforcing Nigeria’s legacy as a powerhouse in the sport.
While Aruna’s personal achievements are commendable, his journey also highlights the need for increased investment in Nigerian table tennis. Improved training facilities, sponsorships, and grassroots development programs are essential to nurturing the next generation of champions. As Aruna continues to shine, it is crucial for stakeholders, including the Nigerian government and corporate sponsors, to rally behind him and the sport at large.
Quadri Aruna’s rise to Africa’s No. 1 is not just a personal victory; it is a moment of pride for Nigeria and the entire continent. His story reflects the spirit of resilience and excellence that defines African sports. As he continues his journey, the world watches in anticipation of even greater achievements.
From Oyo to the world, Aruna is a shining example of what African athletes can accomplish on the global stage. Congratulations to Africa’s table tennis king—may his reign be long and victorious!
