Tennis action intensifies as semifinalists emerge at the VEMP National Open in Abuja
With VEMP Tennis grand finale scheduled for Sunday, July 14, the faithful will be watching closely to see who ascends to championship glory in Abuja.
The 2024 VEMP National Open Tennis Championship has entered its decisive phase, with the semifinals of the men’s and women’s singles events scheduled for Friday at the National Tennis Centre, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
After a week of intense rallies and determined play, the spotlight now shifts to a set of tantalising semifinal clashes that have captured the attention of tennis fans across the country.
Men’s Singles VEMP Tennis
Top contenders Canice Abua and Daniel Adeleye will face off in one of the most anticipated matchups of the tournament. Abua booked his semifinal place with a gritty 6-0, 3-6, 6-3 win over Yahaya Sani-Inabo. His earlier victories came against Abubakar Yusuf (6-2, 6-4) and Michael Chima (6-1, 6-3).
Adeleye has also been in commanding form, dispatching Mubarak Ganiyu 6-2, 6-1 in the quarterfinals after earlier wins over Basit Ajao (6-1, 6-4) and Joseph Jimoh (6-3, 6-3).
In the second semifinal, Lucky Danjuma will face Uche Oparaji. Danjuma advanced after Mevi Irimiya retired during their match, and previously overcame Oche Adehi (6-3, 6-4) and Paul Egena in a dramatic 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 comeback.
Oparaji, meanwhile, has been solid throughout the tournament, notching straight-set wins over Michael Emmanuel (6-3, 6-2) and Ezekiel Azi (6-2, 6-0).
Women’s Singles VEMP Tennis
In the women’s draw, Khadijat Mohammed has emerged as a dominant force, reaching the semifinals with a 6-4, 6-3 win over Success Ogunjobi. Her earlier victories included convincing performances against Jesutoyosi Adeusi and Loveth Ogah.
She will now take on Mary Udofa, who has shown grit and consistency in her journey to the last four.
The other semifinal pits Nenrot Suwa against Omolayo Bamidele. Suwa edged Bamidele in a tight quarterfinal duel, 3-6, 6-2, 6-4, after earlier wins over Destiny Tomizayi and Stella Udokwelu.
Tournament Highlights and Outlook
The championship, which began on July 4, features 192 players across singles and doubles categories. Organised by the Nigeria Tennis Federation, the tournament has drawn wide acclaim for its competitive depth and rising level of talent.
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