Quadri Aruna’s return to international competition ended in a disappointing defeat on Thursday as Sweden’s Truls Moregard eased past the Nigerian star in straight sets to advance to the Round of 16 at the 2025 WTT Yokohama.
In a match that lasted just 18 minutes, fifth-seed Moregard recorded a 3-0 (11-9, 11-9, 11-4) victory in the men’s singles Round of 32 at the BUNTAI Infinity ∞ Arena.
Aruna, who recently reclaimed his position as Africa’s top-ranked player, had hoped to improve on his Round of 32 exit at the United States Grand Smash in July. However, he struggled to find his rhythm, with Moregard controlling proceedings from the opening exchanges.
For Moregard, the win comes as a timely boost ahead of next week’s Europe Smash Sweden 2025 in his home city of Malmö. The two-time WTT Champions semifinalist produced a clinical display, neutralising Aruna’s explosive forehands with sharp footwork and precision shot-making. He won 33 points in total — 18 on serve and 15 on return — and at one stage enjoyed a seven-point lead, including a five-point run that swung the momentum firmly in his favour.
Aruna’s best chances came in the first two games, both of which ended 11-9 in Moregard’s favour after the Nigerian failed to convert crucial points. By the third game, the Swede had full control, racing to a 10-3 lead before closing out the set 11-4.
With the victory, Moregard moves on to face Japanese home favourite Sora Matsushima, who earlier staged a dramatic five-game comeback to beat Lee Sang Su (16-18, 9-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-7).
Aruna earned 15 ranking points and $4,500 for his efforts and will now focus on upcoming tournaments as he looks to regain momentum in the final stretch of the season.
The WTT Yokohama carries a $500,000 prize pool, with 1,000 ranking points and $40,000 on offer for the eventual champion.
