Nigeria’s Quadri Aruna will lead a historic seven-player African contingent at the ITTF World Cup scheduled to take place in Macao, China, from 14-20 April, Afrosport reports.
For the first time in history, seven players—four men and three women—will represent Africa at the ITTF World Cup.
Egypt leads the charge with five players, including 2025 ITTF Africa Cup winners Omar Assar and Hana Goda. Nigeria and Cameroon will also be represented, with Ylane Batix joining Aruna at the prestigious global tournament.
Here are the players representing Africa at the 2025 ITTF World Cup:
Men’s Squad
Quadri Aruna (NGR): One of Africa’s most influential table tennis stars, Quadri Aruna is known for his unique style and impressive international results. He is the first African player to rank in the top 10 globally and to reach the ITTF World Cup quarterfinals. The 36-year-old heads to the World Cup with hopes of surpassing his 2014 quarterfinal finish.
Omar Assar (EGY): A pride of Egypt, Omar Assar has consistently delivered outstanding performances, particularly in Africa. The 33-year-old reached his highest world ranking of 16th in March 2016 and has been a key player for Egypt in numerous international tournaments. A two-time Olympic quarterfinalist, Assar aims to make Africa proud in China.
Mohamed El-Beiali (EGY): El-Beiali will be making his second appearance at the World Cup after his maiden outing in 2024, following his vice-champion finish at the 2024 Africa Cup in Kigali, Rwanda.
Ylane Batix (CMR): At just 19, Ylane Batix stunned everyone at the 2025 ITTF Africa Cup with his exceptional performance, leading to the elimination of top seeds and securing his place as the first male player from Cameroon to compete in the World Cup.
Women’s Squad
Hana Goda (EGY): Seventeen-year-old Hana Goda has established herself as Africa’s top female player, winning numerous continental titles. As the first African to be ranked number one globally in any age category, Goda will make her second World Cup appearance in Macao.
Dina Meshref (EGY): Africa’s most decorated table tennis player, Dina Meshref, has won more titles than any other player from the continent. The nine-time Africa Cup champion will make her ninth World Cup appearance since her debut in 2012.
Mariam Alhodaby (EGY): A former African champion, Mariam Alhodaby is rapidly gaining recognition for her performances. The 24-year-old will make her second World Cup appearance in Macao, showcasing her growing promise.
