Abuja: Yusuf and Success Ogunjobi emerged victorious in the DavNotch Tennis Championships held at the Ifedayo Akindoju Centre Court, Moshood Abiola National Stadium. Yusuf clinched his first DavNotch title by defeating Nigeria’s top-ranked player, marking a significant milestone after years of setbacks against his opponent.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yusuf described the win as a dream come true, having overcome a player he has admired for years. He emphasized the importance of mental strength, confidence, and focus in securing his victory. Yusuf’s ambition now extends to representing Nigeria in the Davis Cup, with the DavNotch Championship serving as a platform to showcase his potential.
In the women’s singles, Success Ogunjobi successfully defended her title by defeating Etoro Bassey in a fierce match. Ogunjobi’s comeback from losing the initial set to win the championship was particularly meaningful, following a previous defeat to Bassey in the CBN Open National Tennis Championship final.
The doubles events saw Canice Abua and Musa Mohammed claim the men’s title, overcoming Matthew Abamu and Michael Emmanuel in a tightly contested match. Goodnews Aina and Success Ogunjobi secured the women’s doubles championship, defeating Blessing Omotayo and Nenrots Suwa.
In wheelchair tennis, Andrea Usoh won the women’s singles title, while Alex Adewale claimed the men’s singles crown. Both champions showcased exceptional skill and determination on the court.
During the closing ceremony, DavNotch Managing Director Emmanuel Ochei announced an increase in prize money, highlighting the company’s dedication to tennis development in Nigeria. The men’s singles winner’s prize was increased to N1 million, and the women’s singles champion will now receive N800,000. Ochei emphasized DavNotch’s commitment to long-term support for the tournament and tennis growth in Nigeria, expressing hope for more partnerships to enhance the sport nationwide.
The tournament, featuring various events including singles, doubles, and wheelchair competitions, concluded its sixth edition in Abuja, having started on June 22. The event not only showcased emerging talent but also reinforced DavNotch’s mission to foster inclusivity and excellence in Nigerian tennis.