The 2025 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Junior Tennis Championship, held at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, has once again showcased the nation�s burgeoning tennis talent. With over 100 junior players from 13 states participating, the tournament has reaffirmed its status as a pivotal platform for identifying and nurturing the next generation of Nigerian tennis champions.
Among the standout performers was 11-year-old Mofifoluwa Atilola, who competed in both the Girls� U-14 and U-16 categories. Atilola, currently ranked as Nigeria�s fourth-highest U-14 player and 73rd in Africa, demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament. Her journey to the finals in both categories underscores her potential to become a dominant force in African tennis .
In the Girls� U-16 final, Atilola faced off against Goodnews Aina from Ekiti State. Aina�s impressive performance culminated in a victory over Atilola, securing her the championship title. This match highlighted the depth of talent present in the tournament and the competitive spirit among Nigeria�s young athletes .
On the boys� side, Isa Yahaya made headlines by reaching the semifinals in both the U-14 and U-16 categories. His versatility and prowess on the court have marked him as a player to watch in the coming years .
The championship featured intense matches across various age groups: U-12, U-14, and U-16 for both boys and girls. In the Boys� U-12 semifinals, Ashim Ghazal from Oyo State maintained an unbeaten record, setting up a clash against Emmanuel Ogungbe. Meanwhile, Excellency Ogoniba from Bayelsa faced Taiwo Korede in the other semifinal.
In the Girls� U-12 category, Karina Opuene was a standout, advancing to the semifinals where she met Ghana-based Whitney Orimoloye. Mabubat Rasaki and Adesinmi Olaniyan contested the other semifinal, showcasing the tournament�s international appeal and the growing competitiveness of junior tennis in the region .
The CBN Junior Tennis Championship continues to play a crucial role in the development of tennis in Nigeria. By providing young athletes with the opportunity to compete at a high level, the tournament helps in honing their skills and preparing them for international competitions. The success of players like Atilola and Aina serves as an inspiration for aspiring tennis players across the country.
As the tournament concluded, stakeholders and fans alike celebrated the emergence of new talents and the promise they hold for the future of Nigerian tennis. The CBN�s commitment to supporting junior tennis ensures that the country continues to produce athletes capable of competing on the global stage.
