Aruna leads Nigeria’s charge at ITTF World Championships

  Nigeria will begin its campaign as the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships serve off today in London, marking a historic return of the tournament to its birthplace a century after its debut in 1926. Leading Nigeria’s charge is Quadri Aruna, who headlines the men’s team in a competitive group featuring Hong Kong, South Africa, […]

Nigeria will begin its campaign as the 2026 ITTF World Team Championships serve off today in London, marking a historic return of the tournament to its birthplace a century after its debut in 1926.
Leading Nigeria’s charge is Quadri Aruna, who headlines the men’s team in a competitive group featuring Hong Kong, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia.
While the men’s team carries significant expectations, the women’s squad faces a more uncertain path. Experienced players Fatimo Bello and Ajoke Ojomu will provide leadership, while emerging talents Sukurat Aiyelabegan and Hope Udoaka have an opportunity to make their mark on the global stage despite concerns in some quarters over team selection.
Across the continent, African teams are brimming with ambition. Egypt, widely regarded as Africa’s table tennis powerhouse, will rely on Omar Assar and world No. 20 Hana Goda to lead their men’s and women’s teams respectively.
Assar’s side is drawn against Thailand, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, while Goda’s team faces Belgium, South Africa, and Algeria.
Algeria also arrives with renewed optimism, driven by teenage sensations Tania and Jade Morice, who are set to make their senior championship debut.
In total, 12 African men’s teams and 13 women’s teams will compete at the tournament, which runs until May 10 across two venues in London, including the Copper Box Arena.