Men’s Singles defending champion, Quadri Aruna, has said that he has nothing to lose as he prepares for the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup, which begins on Tuesday in Tunis.
A statement from the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, NTTF, on Wednesday indicated that the five-time champion was optimistic about delivering his best performance in the tournament.
In spite of acknowledging the tough competition in Tunis, Aruna remained confident.
“At 36, I have nothing to lose. I’m fully prepared to compete against everyone, including young talents like Wassim Essid, who is already seen as the future African champion.
“For me, it’s been years of success, and if we reach the final again, it shows we still have a lot to offer.
“I expect a tougher challenge this time, but I’m ready to give my best and see how things unfold,” Aruna said.
The most successful player in ITTF Africa Cup history, Dina Meshref, is determined to defend her title and secure her 10th championship at the prestigious tournament in Tunis.
Speaking about her ambition, the nine-time champion said: “Every tournament has its own charm.
“Even though I’ve won it several times, I’m still excited and motivated to give my best and fight for the title once again.”
Tunisia’s Wassim Essid is riding high on confidence after a landmark victory at the ITTF African Club Championships.
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The 17-year-old defeated five-time Africa Cup champion Omar Assar 3-2, becoming only the third African to triumph over him in a competitive match.
In spite of Essid’s impressive win, his team narrowly lost 3-2 to Assar’s ENPPI.
Essid remains optimistic about the ITTF Africa Cup, believing that playing on home soil will enhance his performance against top players.
“Of course, I have an advantage playing in Tunisia because my fans, friends and family will support me.
“This competition will be different as there are many top players, but I will give my best to go far in the tournament,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tunisia Table Tennis Federation, TTTF, President, Lofti Guerfel, has expressed his excitement about hosting the event, calling it a showcase of Africa’s best talents.
“It is a special event, with talented players from across Africa gathering in Tunis. I hope you enjoy your stay in Tunisia.
“Our youth players are improving every day, and we are providing the best conditions for them to excel in the competition.
“There are many talented players like Quadri Aruna and Omar Assar, but young players have nothing to lose against the top competitors.
“They will be ready to cause upsets, as the pressure is greater on senior players than on the young ones,” Guerfel said.
Source: NAN
