Nigeria’s number one and Africa’s top-ranked table tennis star, Aruna Quadri, defeated Mohamed El-Beiali of Egypt 4-0 to win the 2024 ITTF Africa Cup on Tuesday, at the BK Arena in Kigali.
After suffering three consecutive losses in the finals, Quadri reclaimed the crown for the first time in seven years.
Quadri said, “I never gave up on my dream. It doesn’t matter where you come from; I came from a small place in Oyo State in Nigeria, and it was really difficult growing up.
“I just want to tell everyone that something great is possible for every individual.”
In the female category, Egypt’s Dina Meshref showcased her resilience, coming back from 2-0 down to defeat her compatriot Mariam Alhodaby 4-3.
Meshref becomes the new Africa Cup champion after losing in the finals of the last two editions.
Following their impressive performances, the focus will now shift to the African Olympic Qualification Tournament, which begins on Thursday, May 16, and ends on May 18, also at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda.