The long-standing rivalry between two continental giants – Africa’s Quadri Aruna and South America’s Hugo Calderano – will be reignited at the 2025 ITTF World Championships, in Doha, today.

  The two stars, who are set to clash in the fourth round of the Men’s singles at the Lusail Arena, are widely regarded as modern icons of table tennis in their respective regions.

   Currently, Calderano is enjoying the best form of his career. He recently captured the 2025 ITTF World Cup title in Macao, defeating world No. 1 Li Shidong and No. 2 Wang Chuqin of China – becoming the first South American to win the prestigious trophy.

  Aruna’s path to the Fourth Round in Doha has been equally impressive. He opened with a commanding 4-0 win over Calderano’s compatriot Victor Ishiy, followed by a thrilling 4-2 victory against Norwegian left-hander Borgar Haug.

   In the Third Round, he continued his fine form by overcoming Germany’s Benedikt Duda 4-2. Looking ahead to the match, Calderano praised his Nigerian rival: “Aruna is a very strong player. He’s been in the top 10 before, and everyone knows what he’s capable of. I’m ready for a big fight—he’s a fighter too—so it’s going to be very exciting.”