2023 WTT: Tough test for Aruna as he tackles Japan's Harimoto in last 16

Nigeria's table tennis star Aruna Quadri faces a daunting prospect as he comes up against Japan's Tomikazu Harimoto in the round of 16 men's singles at the Singapore smash on Thursday, March 16.

The reigning African champion set up a meeting with the 19-year-old Japanese star after edging French teenager Alexis Lebrun in a closely contested match at Singapore Sports Hub’s OCBC Arena on Tuesday.

After losing the first set to the young French man, the 33-year-old fought back to win 3-2 to book his place in the last 16.

Despite being on the losing side in his two meetings with his next opponent, Quadri believes he can change the narrative when he takes on Harimoto on Thursday.

“It is always difficult playing against Harimoto because he is a very fast player. It’s not just that he is a tough opponent, he is a good player who is capable of winning as well.

“But having played him twice at a big stage like this, I think I will try my best to bring him down this time around because it’s a 50-50 match for both of us, anybody can win.

“In this tournament, every player has an equal chance to win the title because we are all at the same level regardless of your world ranking. I am happy with my performance, and I hope I can do more,” Aruna said after his win.

Quadri remains the only African representative in the competition.

WDN