From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Nigerian table tennis star Quadri Aruna has vowed to fight his way back to the top after two years marked by disappointing results on the international stage and compounded by personal struggles.
The former African champion is determined to revive his career with a fresh start in France, where he has joined Amiens Sport Tennis de Table, a second-division club in the French Table Tennis League.
Aruna left Lagos over the weekend after a brief holiday and has since linked up with his new club. According to the Nigerian star, the move represents more than just a change of club; it is a declaration of intent to rebuild his career.
“The last two years have been challenging both on and off the table.
“But I am determined to regain my spot on the global ladder. I am a fighter, and I am ready to endure the rigours of returning to form. Nothing comes easy in life, and I am willing to go through the process to reclaim my place in the rankings,” he admitted.
Aruna’s pedigree remains undeniable. He is the only African player to have been ranked inside the world’s top 10, and his signing is seen as a major boost for Amiens as the club targets promotion.
He will line up alongside experienced players, including Austrian legend Robert Gardos, Portugal’s João Monteiro, South Korea’s Cho Seung-min and Frenchman Denis Dorcescu.
Amiens’ campaign begins at home on September 22 against Lille Métropole.
Currently ranked World No. 81, Aruna has endured a difficult run on the international circuit this year, briefly slipping to fourth in Africa.
However, he continues to captain the Nigerian Men’s National Team, with expectations high as he prepares to lead the team to Morocco next month.
Earlier in 2026, Aruna reminded the world of his resilience by guiding Nigeria to a thrilling 3–2 victory over Saudi Arabia at the ITTF World Team Championships in London.
His most recent appearance came in early July at the US Smash 2026 in Los Angeles, where he competed in the men’s singles.
After receiving a wildcard entry, Aruna was eliminated in the Round of 64 by Sweden’s Truls Möregårdh.
Despite the recent setbacks, Aruna’s determination to rise again remains unmistakable as he begins a new chapter in France.