ITTF W/Championship: Aruna hits quarter-finals

• Smashes  Sweden’s Kristian Karlsson in the round of 16

• Becomes first African to advance to the ITTF World Championship Quarter-Finals

Aruna Quadri has continued to churn out masterclass performances at the ITTF World Championship in Houston, USA.

After setting a new African record to reach the round of 16, Aruna smashed Sweden’s Kristian Karlsson 11-9, 5-11, 13-11, 5-11, 6-11, 11-8, 11-6 to advance to the quarter-finals.

This result makes him the first African ever to reach the last 8.

Nigerian table tennis enthusiasts are rubbing their hands at the possibility of their compatriot going as far as the medals table at the end of the tournament.

An elated Quadri said after the match that his resolve and ‘never-say-die’ passion was vital to his steady progress.

The 36-year old who is nicknamed “Balboa” because of his aggressive and unorthodox forehand top spins will now be going toe to toe with some of the best table tennis players for the ultimate crown.

Mazino/ITTF World Table Tennis