Abuja: Lucky Danjuma has won the International Tennis Federation (ITF ) World Tennis Tour Junior J30 Abuja by beating Oriol Alvarez of Spain 6-0,6-4 in the final of the male singles on Saturday in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Junior ITF event is a flagship tournament that helps junior players gain global rankings.
The tournament, which started on June 2, ended on June 14 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
The match between Danjuma and Alvarez was closely contested, but the first set started off slowly. In spite of the slow pace, Danjuma dominated the set, winning it 6-0.
In the second set, Alvarez put up a fight, but Danjuma maintained his lead, taking a 2-1 advantage. As the set progressed, Alvarez pushed for more points, taking a 4-5.
Both players showed signs of fatigue but managed to keep going and struggled to strike and slam, showcasing their determination. Ultimately, Danjuma emerged victorious, winning the set 6-4.
Danjuma won decisively in the quarterfinals, defeating Hugo Jathiere 6-1, 6-1. He then dominated Ezekiel Azi in the semifinals, winning 6-2, 6-1, to secure his spot in the final.
While Alvarez had a thrilling quarterfinal match, coming from behind to beat Oluwatobi Agboola 3-6, 6-0, 7-6(8). They edged out Joseph Jimoh in a closely contested match in the semifinals, winning 6-3, 2-6, 7-6(1), to advance to the final.
After the final game, Danjuma announced that this win would be my last in the junior category as I transitioned to the senior level.
“I am satisfied with the outcome of my performance in both the doubles and singles events. I won the doubles title in both first and second legs with my partner, Alvarez.
“I dedicated these victories to my late parents, expressing an emotional connection to the wins.
“Hopefully to attract more sponsors to support my future sports endeavours,” he said.
Alvarez said he had a challenging experience in the tournament. On Friday, he was not feeling unwell after a tough match but still managed to win the doubles category with Danjuma as his partner.
However, the fatigue from the previous match affected his performance in the singles match against Danjuma.
“My speed and focus were compromised, but I appreciated the experience gained from participating in both legs of the tournament.
“I congratulated Danjuma on being an outstanding player and hope he moves forward.
“I am grateful to have my father and grandfather here with me; their support means everything.
“My next focus is on intense practice sessions to prepare for the upcoming national championship in Spain,” he said.
In the same venue, the female’s category saw Success Ogunjobi beat Luczak Luise of Germany 6-3,7-5 to clinch the title.
The match was a thrilling encounter, with both players displaying impressive skills. Ogunjobi showcased her talent and determination, cementing her position as a rising star in Nigerian tennis.
NAN reports that on Friday, the pair of Alvarez and Danjuma beat the pairs of Joseph Jimoh and Manan Rai of India, 6-2,7-6(5), to claim the title in the male doubles category.
The Goodness Aina and Success Ogunjobi duo beat Toluwalashe Agunbiade and Etoro Bassey 6-2,6-3 to claim the title in the female doubles category.
NAN reports that Plaques were awarded to the winners and runner-up positions. NAN reports that the ITF event, which started on June 2, ended today (June 14 ) at the Tennis Centre of Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Nigeria (host), Ghana, Germany, South Africa, Egypt, India, Korea, China, Spain, France and Thailand participated in the championship.