ITTF Africa Championship: Aruna Quadri outclasses Assar, regains African crown

Aruna Quadri reclaimed his crown as Africa’s best table tennis player after claiming gold in the men’s singles event at the ongoing ITTF Africa Championship in Algeria. The 34-year-old won his first gold at the tournament in four years.

Having made light work of teenage compatriot Mati Taiwo in the semifinals, Aruna Quadri booked a meeting with his archrival from Egypt Omar Assar. The experienced Nigerian star was out to avenge his 4-1 defeat at the 2021 ITTF Africa Championship final in Yaounde.

Quadri quickly found himself in trouble as he went down 0-2 against his opponent. Staring defeat in the face, the number one player in Africa quickly showed his pedigree to gain a handle in the clash and overcome Assar 4-3 to win the gold medal.

Ranked 15th in the world and 1st in Africa, Quadri has now claimed his second ITTF Africa Senior Championship singles title. Earlier in the competition, he had stated his wish to win the gold medal once more.

He said, “I haven’t won the African Championship since my last one in 2018, but I have played in all finals since then. It will be good to win a title this year, and I’m looking forward to giving my best. My biggest motivation is that I’m representing Nigeria again, and I want to give my heart and soul as usual for my country.”