Quadri Aruna Advances to Fourth Round at 2025 ITTF World Championships in Doha
Doha, Qatar, May 20, 2025 – Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna has continued to cement his status as Africa’s top table tennis player by advancing to the Round of 16 at the 2025 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships in Doha. Aruna secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Germany’s 14th seed Benedikt Duda in a highly competitive match held at Lusail Hall.
Match Highlights and Performance
Aruna opened the match strongly, taking the first set 11-9 before Duda responded with an 11-4 win in the second set. The Nigerian then adjusted his tactics, winning the third set 12-11 and the fourth 12-10. Although Duda fought back to take the fifth set 11-9, Aruna showcased remarkable resilience by mounting a comeback in the sixth set, closing out the match 11-9 to seal a 4-2 victory.
Notably, Aruna rallied from a 3-9 deficit in the fifth set to level at 9-9 before clinching it 12-10, demonstrating his mental toughness and tactical brilliance under pressure. Commentators praised his poise and ability to turn the tide in critical moments.
Significance and Context
With this win, Aruna remains the last African contender in the men’s singles following the early exit of Egypt’s Omar Assar. He made history in 2021 as the first African player to reach the quarterfinals of the ITTF World Championships, and his performance in Doha reaffirms his elite status on the global stage.
The 2025 ITTF World Championships, marking its 58th edition, features around 640 players from 127 member associations competing across five categories: Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.
Upcoming Challenge
Aruna now advances to the Round of 16, where he will face increasingly challenging opponents as the tournament progresses. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can continue his historic run and further elevate African table tennis on the world stage.
