Adeleye, Mohammed Crowned Champions at VEMP National Open Tennis Championship

By Amaechi Agbo

Daniel Adeleye emerged champion of the men’s singles at the 2024 VEMP National Open Tennis Championship after defeating Lucky Danjuma 7-6, 6-2 in Saturday’s final at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Adeleye, who was in commanding form throughout the tournament, edged a tight first set before cruising through the second to seal victory. His path to the title included a thrilling 2-6, 7-5, 6-1 comeback win over Canice Abua in the semifinals, and a convincing 6-2, 6-1 victory over Mubarak Ganiyu in the quarterfinals. He had earlier defeated Basit Ajao and Joseph Jimoh in straight sets.

Danjuma, who fought valiantly to reach the final, beat Uche Oparaji 7-6(5), 6-2 in the semis, and had earlier wins over Mevi Irimiya, Oche Adehi, and Paul Egena in the group stages.

Speaking after the final, Adeleye expressed gratitude for the win, saying it meant more to him than prize money. “This is about showing what I’m capable of. When you focus on your game, the rewards will come,” he said, also praising NTF President Ifedayo Akindoju for organizing the tournament and acknowledging the sportsmanship of Danjuma, whom he described as “supportive and encouraging, even in my low moments.”

In the women’s singles final, Nigeria’s top-ranked female player, Khadijat Mohammed, showed resilience and mental toughness to come from behind and defeat Etoro Bassey 1-6, 6-1, 6-2.

After a shaky start, Mohammed switched tactics in the second set and turned the game around. “I wasn’t settled in the first set, but I adjusted and took control from the second set onward,” she said. The 15-year-old noted her long rivalry with Bassey, whom she has faced since their junior tennis days.

Mohammed reached the final after overpowering Mary Udofa 6-0, 6-3 in the semis and Success Ogunjobi 6-4, 6-3 in the quarters. Her earlier victories came against Jesutoyosi Adeusi (6-2, 6-3) and Loveth Ogah (6-2, 6-2).

Organized by the Nigeria Tennis Federation and sponsored by its president, Ifedayo Akindoju, the VEMP National Open Tennis Championship featured 192 players across men’s and women’s singles and doubles categories. The tournament, which began on July 4, wrapped up on Saturday, July 12, delivering top-level tennis and showcasing Nigeria’s emerging talent.