By Vivian Ahanmisi
The Ayida Foundation’s Lagos Schools Tennis Tournament reached its semifinal stage on Saturday, featuring thrilling contests and outstanding performances from young tennis talents across Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition is taking place at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan, Lagos.
Now in its second edition, the tournament continues to highlight emerging tennis talents under the theme “Serving Rising Champs.”
Young players have displayed remarkable skill, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the competition, making each round more exciting and competitive.
The semifinal stage has drawn intense attention, with participants battling for a place in the much-anticipated finals.
Winners will receive quality tennis equipment to support their development and help advance their budding careers.
The Ayida Foundation aims to promote tennis among young Nigerians and nurture future national and international champions.
The event has recorded impressive participation, confirming its success as a vibrant platform for youth tennis development in Nigeria.
In the U-12 boys’ category, Vasa Mohammed defeated Raphael Awi 6-3, 6-3, 10-5, while Daniel Igbinovia edged his twin brother, David Igbinovia, 5-7, 7-6(5), 10-6 to advance.
In the U-12 girls’ category, Chisimdi Afammbonu beat Amira Adenayo 4-0, 4-1, while Barakat Ganiu overcame Blessing Yusuf 4-0, 4-1 to reach the final.
For the U-14 girls, Adesimibo Olaniyan triumphed over Anuoluwapo Odebode 7-6, 5-2, while Gloria Akpan defeated Lauryn Robert to secure a final spot.
In the U-14 boys’ division, Goodluck Akinfunmiloye outplayed Babalola Mubarak 6-3, 6-1 to progress to the finals.
Isa Yahaya beat Ayoola Ozeni 6-4, 7-5 in the U-16 boys’ match, while Heman Afaramai defeated Godwin Akinfunmiloye 7-5, 6-3 to reach the final.
In the U-16 girls’ category, Tiffany Osho overpowered Sidikat Ladiju 6-2, 6-0 to book her place in the finals.
Osho expressed delight after reaching the final, saying the tournament had boosted her confidence and improved her performance.
“I’m really happy to have made it to the finals. This tournament has helped me grow and given me the chance to face talented players,” she said.
She commended the Ayida Foundation for offering young athletes a platform to showcase their abilities and pursue their passion for tennis.
In the U-18 girls’ category, Adesewa Olaniyan defeated Christiana Sylvester 6-0, 6-0, while Mofifuoluwa Atilola advanced automatically after her opponent, Osa Osaherun, failed to appear.
Meanwhile, Joseph Daniel beat Salem Rafiu 6-4, 6-3 in the U-18 boys’ event, while Onyekachi Ogunjiofor defeated Tobi Mathew 6-1, 6-2 to reach the finals.
Prizes have been designed to motivate participants and encourage grassroots tennis development across the country.
The annual tournament remains a key highlight in the youth tennis calendar, with this year’s edition living up to expectations and inspiring future champions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
