VEMP: National Open Tennis Championship Heats Up as Semifinals Begin

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

The excitement is reaching fever pitch at the ongoing VEMP National Open Tennis Championship, as the tournament moves into the semifinal stage in both the men’s and women’s singles events. Taking place at the National Tennis Centre, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, the competition has delivered electrifying action and is now set for even greater drama.

Men’s Singles Semifinal Matchups:

Canice Abua vs. Daniel AdeleyeAbua has been on a solid run, defeating Yahaya Sani-Inabo 6-0, 3-6, 6-3 in a hard-fought quarterfinal contest. His earlier victories include a 6-2, 6-4 win over Abubakar Yusuf and a 6-1, 6-3 triumph against Michael Chima.

Adeleye has looked equally sharp, cruising past Mubarak Ganiyu 6-2, 6-1 in the quarters. He previously dispatched Basit Ajao 6-1, 6-4 and Joseph Jimoh 6-3, 6-3 in straight sets.

Lucky Danjuma vs. Uche OparajiDanjuma reached the last four after Mevi Irimiya retired in the second set of their quarterfinal match. Earlier, Danjuma had battled past Oche Adehi 6-3, 6-4 and mounted a comeback against Paul Egena with a 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 victory.

Oparaji, displaying strong form throughout the tournament, eliminated Michael Emmanuel 6-3, 6-2 and breezed past Ezekiel Azi 6-2, 6-0.

Women’s Singles Semifinal Matchups:

Khadijat Mohammed vs. Mary UdofaMohammed has stood out in the women’s draw, defeating Success Ogunjobi 6-4, 6-3 in the quarterfinals. Her path to the semis also included commanding wins over Jesutoyosi Adeusi (6-2, 6-3) and Loveth Ogah (6-2, 6-2).

Udofa, known for her tenacity, has battled her way into this round and will now face one of the tournament’s strongest performers.

Nenrot Suwa vs. Omolayo BamideleSuwa came from behind to edge Bamidele 3-6, 6-2, 6-4 in their quarterfinal clash. Earlier, she saw off Destiny Tomizayi 6-2, 6-3 and Stella Udokwelu 6-0, 6-1 with dominant performances.

Bamidele, having impressed in the early rounds, will aim to bounce back and make a strong push for a place in the final.

Looking Ahead:Semifinal action is scheduled for Friday, and fans can expect another round of gripping tennis as players vie for a place in Sunday’s grand finale.

The championship, which kicked off on July 4 and runs through July 12, features men’s and women’s singles and doubles categories. With 192 players competing this year, the tournament has showcased the depth of talent in Nigerian tennis.

Who will rise to the challenge and claim a spot in the final? The spotlight remains on Abuja as the VEMP National Open Tennis Championship nears its dramatic conclusion.