The 2026 ITTF World Team Championships officially kick off today in London, marking a significant milestone as the tournament returns to its roots exactly a century after the very first edition in 1926. For the Nigerian contingent, the event represents a major opportunity to showcase the nation’s sporting prowess on one of the most prestigious stages in table tennis.
Leading the charge for the Nigerian men is the ever-reliable Quadri Aruna. His presence at the top of the roster brings a sense of confidence to a team drawn into a challenging group that includes South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Hong Kong. Aruna’s experience at the highest levels of the sport is expected to be the driving force as Nigeria looks to navigate the early stages of the competition.
While the men’s side enters the tournament with high expectations, the narrative surrounding the women’s squad is one of transition and untapped potential. The team will lean heavily on the veteran leadership of Fatimo Bello and Ajoke Ojomu. They are joined by rising stars Sukurat Aiyelabegan and Hope Udoaka, who are eager to prove their worth on the global stage despite some pre-tournament debates regarding the final team selection.
The Nigerian journey is part of a broader African surge at this year’s championships. Egypt continues to hold its position as a continental heavyweight, pinning its hopes on Omar Assar and world No. 20 Hana Goda. While Assar’s team prepares to face Thailand, Turkey, and Kazakhstan, Goda will lead the Egyptian women against a lineup that includes Belgium and Algeria.
Adding to the excitement is a revitalized Algerian squad featuring teenage sensations Tania and Jade Morice, both of whom are making their highly anticipated senior championship debuts. In total, the continent is well-represented in London, with 12 men’s and 13 women’s teams from Africa participating in the event.
The tournament is spread across two major venues, including the iconic Copper Box Arena, and will run until May 10. For fans following the action, the next few weeks promise intense competition as these athletes battle for glory in the same city where the global table tennis journey began one hundred years ago.
