Quarter finalists emerge in Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis

Ifeajika wins Fashanu Memorial classic

The 17th Governor’s Cup Lagos Tennis Championship entered its quarterfinal stage yesterday with former champion, Conny Perrin of Switzerland on course to winning another title in Lagos. She has qualified for the quarterfinals of the first leg (Futures 4) of the championship holding at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan.

The Swiss player, who won the Governor’s Cup singles titles in 2015 and 2016, as well as doubles titles in the 2012 edition, defeated American Alexandra Riley in straight sets of 6-0,6-2 in the second round of the women’s singles decided yesterday. The right handed player, who started playing tennis at the age of six, will face Tan Harmony from France, who defeated Njuki Brenda of Sweden in another straight sets of 7-5, 6-0.

In other women’s singles results, Melanie Klaffner of Austria beat Valeriya Strakhova of Ukraine 6-2, 6-7, 6-4. Ayla Aksu from Turkey beat Chiraz Bechri of Tunisia 6-3,6-4.

In men’s singles results, Johan Sebastien Tatlot of France beat Tom Jomby 6-3, 6-0, 6-4 game. The only Nigerian standing, Christian Paul could not go past the second round as he was stopped by India’s Aryan Goveas in straight sets of 6-0, 6-0. Turkish Ilkel Cem beat Thomas Setodji of France 6-3,3-6,7-5.

In another development, the fourth Taslimat Alake Fashanu Memorial Tennis Classics came to an end last Saturday at the Lagos Country Club, Ikeja, with Olukayode Ifeajika winning the members’ American Tournament.

Ifeajika, who relished the top prize, which was his first in the club, amassed 14 points to edge out second-placed Idemudia Ujiagbe in a keenly-contested event.

“This is my most memorable day in the club because I have participated in several tournaments but has never finished in top place,” Ifeajika said.

Dele Oshiga also had a podium finish for the first time to place third as the top-three were rewarded with prizes and trophies. Also, Lola Aluko garnered seven points to finish in 13th place, which was enough to land her the prize of Women MVP of the tournament, which featured 28 participants.

Tunde Olujobi, Segun Aluko, Jide Adefeso, Tunde Adeniji, Sule Mustapha, Joro Olagbegi and Damilola Onarinde all finished in the top-ten.

Tournament sponsor, Babatunde Fashanu (SAN) thanked members for their enthusiasm to feature in the tournament, which he pointed has served as encouragement for his sponsorship.