Aruna, Kuti, other Nigerian stars drop in latest ITTF rankings
The poster-boy of Nigerian table tennis, Aruna Quadri, has dropped in the latest February world rankings released on Tuesday by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), losing his long-held position as Africa’s top-ranked player. Quadri, who previously occupied the 33rd spot in the world, now sits 34th with 875 ranking points, just below Egypt’s Omar […]
Nigeria’s most decorated table tennis player, Aruna Quadri, prepares to serve during a match
The poster-boy of Nigerian table tennis, Aruna Quadri, has dropped in the latest February world rankings released on Tuesday by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), losing his long-held position as Africa’s top-ranked player.
Quadri, who previously occupied the 33rd spot in the world, now sits 34th with 875 ranking points, just below Egypt’s Omar Assar, who climbed to 33rd with 976 points to reclaim the continent’s number one position.
The shift marks a significant moment in African table tennis rivalry, as both players have dominated the scene for nearly a decade.
Quadri, renowned for his explosive forehand and fearless attacking play, has carried Nigerian hopes at major international tournaments, including multiple ITTF World Cups and Olympic Games appearances.
However, recent results have seen him struggle for consistency on the world tour, opening the door for Assar—his long-time continental rival—to regain top spot.
Assar, on his part, has been in superb form since late 2025, registering solid wins on the European circuit.
The Egyptian’s resurgence has been credited to improved fitness and a refined tactical approach, particularly against defensive players—a factor that has earned him vital ranking points.
The ranking changes also affected other Nigerian male players. Matthew Kuti, one of the nation’s most promising young talents, dropped from 182nd to 184th after a quiet start to the year.
Kuti, who gained international attention during the 2024 African Championships, is expected to bounce back as he targets qualification for major global events later in the season.
Similarly, Abdulbasit Abdulfatai slipped from 205th to 210th, while Olajide Omotayo, a former African Games gold medalist, fell from 224th to 229th.
Omotayo has been working to rediscover the form that once made him one of Nigeria’s most dependable players.
Another young player, Taiwo Mati, dropped from 228th to 233rd. Still only in his early 20s, Mati remains a key figure for Nigeria’s future, having impressed at several international junior events with his speed and agility.
In the women’s category, Fatimo Bello, Nigeria’s top female player, also experienced a slight dip, falling from 115th to 118th. Bello, known for her aggressive topspin play, continues to lead the women’s national team despite the ranking setback.
The new rankings underscore a challenging start to 2026 for Nigerian table tennis, as players aim to regain ground on the continental and global stage in upcoming ITTF events.