Abuja: Canice Abua was off to a fine start on Monday, defeating Charles Olom 4-1, 4-2 in the Men’s singles round of 64 to qualify for the round of 32 of the ongoing 2025 CBN Senior Tennis Open Championship in Abuja.
The ongoing Championship, which started on July 18, is expected to conclude on July 26 at the National Tennis Centre, Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Package B, Abuja.
Abua, who took control of the first set from the outset, winning 4-1 in the opening set, maintained the momentum in the second set and won 4-2.
Abua will next take on either Seyi Ogunsakin or Yahuza Bello in the round of 32.
Speaking after the match, Abua told NAN that after the delay due to rain, he was thrilled to have finally won the first-round game.
“My opponent was formidable, but I managed to dominate the game, playing him left and right. It felt like a training session or warm-up rather than a competitive match.
“I am excited for the doubles event starting today, where I will partner with Emmanuel Michael, and we are hopeful about lifting the trophy,” he said.
On his part, Olom, who hailed from Cross Rivers, said despite losing his first game, he gave his all in the short sets of the first round.
“My opponent is a skilled player, and I learned a lot from him. It was our first time competing against each other.
“This is my first time making the main draw in the CBN, and I am taking it as a valuable experience. I will now focus on the doubles category with my partner, Agunbiade Oluwadamilola.
“We will put up a good fight and strive for a better result,” he said.
In the other male singles category, Adeleye, Nigeria’s current number one player, dominated Mohammed Amir with a 4-1, 4-1 to advance to the round of 32.
Ajang Sylvanus defeated Nuru Urenyang 4-0,4-2, Seun Ogunsakin, on his part, eased David John 4-1,4-1. Endurance Ehigiamuose defeated Mevi Irimiya 4-5,4-1,4-2 to advance to the round of 32.
Morakinyo Akinwale struggled hard to beat Oluwatobi Agboola 4-1,4-5(4),4-2. Thomas Otu beat Samuel Akagha 4-1,4-2 to also advance to the round of 32.
In other games played in the competition, Kahdijat Mohammed defeated Jesutoyisi Adeusi 5-4(5)4-5(1)4-1 to advance to the round of 16 in the women’s category.
Timipre Maxwell beat Omotayo Ibrahim-Jatto 1-4,4-2,4-1, and Nenrot Suwa defeated Faith Adeusi 4-0,4-2- 2 to advance to the round of 16 in the women’s category.
