By Daniel Edu
Quadri Aruna, the sole representative from Nigeria at the 2024 ITTF World Cup in Macao, China, faced disappointment as he bowed out of the tournament following two consecutive defeats.
Having made history as the first African table tennis player to reach the quarter-finals of the ITTF World Cup in the past, Aruna aimed to surpass his previous achievements this year. However, his aspirations came to an abrupt halt on Wednesday, April 17.
In his match against Portugal’s Marcos Freitas, Aruna displayed initial promise, launching into the game with vigor. Despite a strong start, the 35-year-old Nigerian couldn’t sustain his performance, ultimately succumbing to a 3-1 defeat (scores: 12-10, 11-9, 11-9, 3-11).
Aruna’s setback against Freitas followed a significant 4-0 loss to Daniel Gonzalez of Croatia the day prior. Despite hopes for a rebound in his subsequent match, Aruna was unable to secure a victory.
Now, Aruna faces the challenge of maintaining his status as the top table tennis player in Africa, despite his winless streak at the ITTF World Cup.
Meanwhile, Egypt’s Omar Assar showcased impressive form, advancing in the competition with a 3-1 victory over Swedish national champion Truls Moregardh (scores: 15-13, 9-11, 11-6, 11-5). Assar’s triumph came on the heels of a commanding 4-0 win against Noshad Alamiyan of Iran, securing his position as the Group 16 winner and securing his spot in the next phase of the tournament.
