By Femi Atolagbe
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Ayodele Oluwadamilare of the Akure Tennis Family has emerged as the winner of the first edition of the Inter-Club Tennis Tournament, defeating his closest opponent, Niyi Olateru-Olagbegi, in a keenly contested final.
In the finals of the competition, held at the Ondo State Senior Staff Club Tennis Court in Akure, Oluwadamilare triumphed over Olateru-Olagbegi with final scores of 7-5, 6-4, securing the title of overall winner of the tournament.
Oluwadamilare had earlier defeated Abayomi Omonori to reach the final, while Olateru-Olagbegi overcame Alfred Ilesanmi in a closely fought semi-final.
The lawn tennis tournament which was organised by the Akure Tennis Club featured participants from within and outside the state, representing clubs such as the host, the Ondo Club, the Cathedral Club, the Ilorin Clubs, and several individual competitors.
The Host captain, Abayomi Omonori emphasised that the competition was organised to show their usual passion and their support for tennis and to encourage healthy rivalry among players in the state and its neighboring States.
During the trophy presentation, the tournament referee, Prince Wale Olateru- Olagbegi, commended the skill and sportsmanship displayed by all participants.
He emphasized that the tournament aimed to unite clubs, which is a common practice in tennis championships worldwide.
According to him, tennis has proven to be one of the best sports for maintaining physical fitness and overall well-being.
Participant Charles Akinsete described the tournament as an opportunity to foster friendship and love for one another, noting that it was not a do-or-die affair. He expressed his gratitude to the organizers for their efforts.
Stephen Esimukuai, captain of the Ilorin Club, also thanked the Akure Tennis Club for the invitation, calling the tournament a special and memorable experience.