Nigeria’s table tennis star and defending African Cup men’s singles champion, Quadri Aruna, is set to defend his title at the 2025 ITTF African Cup in Tunisia. The tournament, scheduled for February 25 to 27 at the 5,500-capacity El-Menzah Sports Palace in Tunis, will also serve as a qualifier for the 2025 ITTF World Cup in Macao, China.
The top four players in both the men’s and women’s categories will earn a place at the expanded ITTF World Cup, set for April. Aruna, one of Africa’s most decorated table tennis players, will once again face his long-time rival, Egypt’s Omar Assar.
Aruna has claimed the African Cup title five times (2024, 2017, 2016, 2014, and 2009), while Assar has also won it five times (2023, 2022, 2019, 2018, and 2015). However, Aruna holds the record for the most final appearances in the tournament’s history.
Other top contenders in the men’s event include Benin’s Abdel-Kabir Salifou, Congo Brazzaville’s Saheed Idowu, and Tunisia’s Wassim Essid, all aiming to make an impact.
In the women’s category, Egypt’s nine-time champion Dina Meshref will defend her title against her compatriot, the continent’s top-ranked player, Hana Goda, and 2024 runner-up Mariam Alhodaby.
ITTF Africa President, Enitan Oshodi, expressed confidence in the tournament’s high level of competition. “African table tennis has grown tremendously over the years. This tournament will not only showcase established stars but also provide a platform for emerging talents to shine,” Oshodi said.
The 2025 ITTF African Cup will begin with a preliminary round on the opening day, followed by the knockout stages over the final two days. Tunisia Table Tennis Federation President, Lotfi Guerfel, assured that all preparations were in place for a successful tournament, including live streaming of matches.
“Our team has extensive experience in hosting international competitions. We’ve carefully planned every detail, from logistics to top-quality equipment, and will ensure our technology team delivers seamless online broadcasts for remote audiences,” Guerfel stated.
With top African players set to battle for continental supremacy and World Cup qualification, the 2025 ITTF African Cup promises thrilling action in Tunis.
