Nigerian table tennis champion, Quadri Aruna has declared he is ready for the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup in Tunis, set to begin on February 25.
The 36-year-old, who remains one of Africa’s top-ranked players, acknowledged the stiff competition but remains confident in his ability to perform at the highest level.
Aruna highlighted the challenge of facing elite players like Omar Assar (Egypt) and Wassim Essid (Tunisia) but insists he has nothing to lose and is prepared to fight for a ticket to the ITTF World Cup in Macao, China.
“For me, I have got nothing to lose, 36-year-old already. I am fully ready to fight against everyone. Looking forward to fight against Wassir.”
“You gave him already African champion. For me, I know it’s been years of success, and if we are in final this time around, it really means we still have a lot to give.”
“So I think it’s going to be a little bit difficult this time around, but of course, I am ready to give my best and see how it will go.”
The ITTF Africa Cup will see 29 men and 21 women battle for four World Cup slots in each category.
As a five-time champion, Aruna will aim for a sixth title, but he faces strong competition from Assar, Africa’s No. 1-ranked player, and emerging talents eager to make their mark.
High Stakes in Tunis
The tournament, set to take place at the El-Menzah Sports Hall in Tunis, is a crucial pathway to the ITTF World Cup. The semifinalists in both the men’s and women’s singles categories will qualify for Macao, China, in April.
Defending champions Aruna and Egypt’s Dina Meshref will look to retain their titles, but the competition will be fierce. Omar Assar, a five-time champion like Aruna, will also be seeking his sixth title.
Rising stars such as Cameroon’s Batix Ylane and Nigeria’s Matthew Kuti are among those looking to challenge the established names.
With a mix of experience and youthful energy, the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup is set to witness an highly competitive tournament, as the continent’s best battle for glory and a shot at World Cup qualification.
