Quadri Aruna’s journey at the 2025 ITTF World Championships in Doha concluded in the round of 16, marking the end of his campaign for the coveted title. The Nigerian table tennis star faced a formidable opponent in Brazil’s Hugo Calderano, who delivered a dominant performance, securing a decisive 4-0 victory. The match, anticipated as a thrilling encounter between two highly ranked players, unfolded as a one-sided affair, with Calderano showcasing his superior skills and tactical prowess from the outset. Aruna, despite his experience and reputation as one of Africa’s leading players, struggled to match Calderano’s pace and precision, ultimately succumbing to a swift defeat.
The encounter at the Lusail Arena highlighted Calderano’s exceptional form and strategic approach. He effectively neutralized Aruna’s powerful forehand, forcing the Nigerian to rely on his backhand, an area where he appeared less comfortable. This tactical maneuver disrupted Aruna’s rhythm and forced him into a series of unforced errors, contributing significantly to Calderano’s dominant performance. Despite the encouragement and guidance from his coaching staff, Aruna could not find a consistent rhythm and struggled to mount a significant challenge against the in-form Brazilian. The match served as a testament to Calderano’s mastery of the game and his ability to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses.
The relatively short duration of the match, clocking in at 22 minutes, underscored the extent of Calderano’s dominance. He consistently dictated the pace of play, employing his rapid backhand and explosive forehand topspin to devastating effect. Aruna, visibly struggling to cope with the onslaught, found himself on the defensive for most of the match, unable to implement his usual aggressive style of play. The Brazilian’s superior technique and tactical awareness proved too much for the Nigerian to overcome, culminating in a comprehensive victory for Calderano.
Despite the disappointing outcome, Aruna’s presence in the round of 16 reaffirmed his status as a prominent figure in African table tennis. At 36 years old, he continues to be a trailblazer for the sport on the continent, having achieved notable milestones throughout his career, including a quarter-final appearance at the 2021 World Championships in Houston. In Doha, he stood as the sole African representative in the top 16, further solidifying his legacy as one of Africa’s most accomplished table tennis players. His continued participation and competitive spirit serve as an inspiration to aspiring players across the continent.
Calderano, following his emphatic victory, acknowledged Aruna’s caliber and the challenge he posed despite the lopsided scoreline. He recognized the difficulty of maintaining peak performance consistently, especially after his recent triumph at the ITTF World Cup. Calderano emphasized the importance of rigorous training and preparation, highlighting the unpredictable nature of table tennis and the need to be at one’s best against a player of Aruna’s stature. His comments reflected respect for Aruna’s abilities and acknowledged the Nigerian’s standing within the international table tennis community.
In conclusion, Aruna’s journey at the 2025 ITTF World Championships ended in a decisive defeat against a formidable opponent. While the outcome was not what he had hoped for, Aruna’s presence in the round of 16 underscored his enduring legacy as a leading figure in African table tennis. Calderano’s commanding performance showcased his exceptional skills and tactical acumen, propelling him further in the tournament. The match served as a reminder of the demanding nature of professional table tennis and the importance of consistent preparation and adaptability against top-tier opponents. While Aruna’s campaign concluded, his contributions to the sport continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations of African table tennis players.
