Nigeria’s Aruna Quadri has reached the end of his road in table tennis games at the 2016 Rio Olympics after being defeated by the world number one player, Ma Long, from China.
The 28-year old Quadri, who had defeated German table tennis star, Timo Boll 4-2 in a qualifying match for the quarter-finals was beaten 4-0 by Long.
Quadri had a strong beginning performance but lost in straight sets 11-4, 11-2, 11-6, 11-7 against Long.
Despite the loss, fans showed Quadri their love as they requested him to sign autographs, and still went ahead to take some selfies with him.
Long now goes on to face Jun Mizutani of Japan in the semi-finals on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese-based Nigerian Quadri is set to compete in the team events for table tennis for the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung, has extolled the virtues of Aruna Quadri.
Dalung, who watched the quarter-final match between Quadri and Ma Long, celebrated with Quadri at Riocentro Pavilion.
He said though Quadri lost to the best player in the world, it was an achievement to play in the quarter-finals.
“This is the first time an African player is getting to the quarter-finals of the table tennis men’s singles. It is a laudable achievement. Though you didn’t make it to the semis, Nigerians are proud of you. We are happy that you have not only etched Africa’s name in the book of records but also that of Nigeria.
“I also wish you a happy birthday and many successful outings in your career. We will continue to reward athletes who excel in their various sports and wish the others best of luck in their events,” Dalung said.
Similarly, Dalung joined millions of Nigerians to congratulate Chierika Ukogu after her semi-final qualification for the Women’s Single Sculls rowing event at the ongoing Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
While lauding the achievement of the emerging star who is the first Nigerian to participate in Rowing at the Olympics, the number one sports administrator in Nigeria said that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that athletes’ welfare are well taken care of.
Dalung praised the 24-year old for her never-say-die spirit after finishing fifth in Quarterfinal 3.
Meanwhile, ahead of her semi-final race on Friday at Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon, Copacabana, Dalung has charged the graduate of Stanford University to double her effort and focus on bringing honour to herself and the nation.
