Nigerian Star Dominates Continental Rankings, Finishing Strong in Global Standings.
Nigeria's own Aruna Quadri has capped off an exceptional 2025 season by once again claiming the title of Africa's No. 1 table tennis player in the final yearly rankings released by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) on Tuesday, December 31. Source: Sportblits.com
At 37 years old, Quadri closed the year ranked 28th in the world with 1,065 points, making him the only African player to surpass the 1,000-point mark. Hot on his heels is Egypt's Omar Assar, who finished as the continental runner-up at world No. 32 with 965 points.
Quadri's consistency and resilience stood out throughout a gruelling schedule in 2025, including:
- Runner-up at the ITTF African Cup in Tunis (350 points)
- Semi-finalist at WTT Star Contender Doha
- Last 16 at the World Table Tennis Championships Finals (also Doha)
- Strong performances at Singapore Smash, US Smash, and multiple WTT Champions/Contender events across Asia and Europe
On the global scene, China continues to dominate with Wang Chuqin (No.1) and Lin Shidong (No.2), while Brazil's Hugo Calderano holds the top spot among non-Asian players at No.3.
A three-time Olympian (2012, 2016, 2020), Quadri reached the quarter-finals at the Rio Olympics and made history in 2022 as the first African to break into the world top 10. His accolades include ITTF Star Player of the Year (2014), a Commonwealth bronze medal, and recognition as Africa's most successful Olympic table tennis player.
With longevity, consistency, and trailblazing achievements, Aruna Quadri remains the pride of African table tennis. Here's to an even stronger 2026!
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