Quadri Aruna returns to the international stage in Macao as Nigeria’s sole representative at the 2025 ITTF World Cup, beginning his campaign against Abdel-Kader Salifou of Benin Republic at the Galaxy Arena.
The 36-year-old Aruna, currently ranked 20th in the world and second in Africa, is level on 1290 ranking points with his long-time rival Omar Assar of Egypt, who sits just ahead at 19th.
Salifou, 35, enters the tournament as the lowest-ranked player at 117th with 175 points. While Aruna is the clear favorite on paper, the stakes and unpredictability of the World Cup leave no room for complacency.
Back in 2014, Aruna made history as the first African to reach the quarterfinals of the ITTF World Cup. More than a decade later, his powerful forehand and fast-paced style remain his trademark, as he looks to make another deep run and further cement his legacy on the global stage.
