Nigeria’s table tennis star, Quadri Aruna, was knocked out of the WTT China Smash on Sunday following a 3-0 defeat to Denmark’s Anders Lind in the round of 64.
Newsonspot reports that ranked world number 14 and Africa’s highest-ranked player, Aruna struggled against Lind, who edged him in three tightly contested sets: 12-10, 13-11, and 13-11.
Speaking after the match, Aruna admitted that his opponent proved difficult to handle, particularly with his service game.
“It’s the first time I played against him. It’s really hard. The biggest problem was his serve. I think if I was able to put some of the serves a little bit better, probably things might have changed in my favour. But overall, I think I did my best, which is much more important to me,” he told CGTN Sports Scene.
Despite the defeat, Aruna expressed gratitude to the Chinese fans for their overwhelming support, saying:
“I must say thanks to all the Chinese fans. They kept me going all the time. They supported me a lot, and I want to say thanks to them.”
Looking ahead, Aruna is expected to lead Nigeria’s 10-player contingent to the 2025 African Championships in Tunisia from October 12 to 19.
The men’s squad includes Taiwo Mati, Olajide Omotayo, two-time West African champion Matthew Kuti, and rising star Abdulbasit Abdulfatai. On the women’s side, captain Ajoke Ojomu will lead a young team comprising Favour Ojo, Aishat Rabiu, Kabirat Ayoola, and Sukurat Aiyelabegan.
With the continental championship in view, Aruna and his teammates will be aiming to secure glory for Nigeria.
