Quadri Yusuf, winner of the men’s singles and U-19 boys’ finals at the Prime Atlantic Squash Championship, credited his success to hard work and determination. 

Yusuf defeated Joshua Daniel 11-5, 11-8, 11-3 (3-0) in the U-19 category before overcoming second seed Tarus Sulaimon 11-8, 11-4, 6-11, 11-6 (3-1). 

Playing two finals in a day was tough, but Yusuf was the fans’ favourite, and each point he won was met with loud applause and cheers.

He showed no signs of fatigue and displayed relentless drive, earning admiration from spectators who passionately cheered him to victory.

Yusuf told journalists that he had lost under similar circumstances two years ago and was determined not to let history repeat itself this time.

“I’m delighted with the victory and now looking forward to more competitions at home and abroad,” he stated.

In the U-19 girls’ final, Aishat Abdulkareem beat Zainab Ishola in a tightly contested match that drew strong reactions from the crowd. 

Abdulkareem won the first set 11-5. Ishola improved in the second but lost 15-13 in an intense back-and-forth exchange. 

Abdulkareem’s power play was too much for Ishola, sealing the win in the third set 11-7 for a straight-set victory (3-0).

In the women’s final, tournament favourite Rofiat Abdulazeez outclassed Faidat Soliu 11-9, 11-3, 11-3 (3-0) to claim the championship title. 

She dominated all her opponents throughout the event, not dropping a single set in her campaign for the trophy. 

Abdulazeez also told journalists she was pleased with her performance and praised the organisers for a well-executed tournament.

President of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Boye Oyerinde, expressed satisfaction with the overall quality of play at the tournament.

He praised Yusuf and others for their brilliant performances, noting that Nigeria’s squash future looks bright.

“I commend the Lagos State Squash Association for their commitment to organising this event. 

“I also appreciate Prime Atlantic for sponsoring the championship. It’s been a worthwhile experience for all involved,” he stated.

Chairman of the Lagos State Squash Association, Tomi Falase, said the grassroots programme was yielding results.

“Our next focus is hosting events for U-16 and U-13 to boost junior players’ confidence and readiness to face senior opponents.

Players came from Rivers, Abuja, Kwara, and Ogun. We strive for inclusivity whenever we organise such events,” he noted.

The Prime Atlantic Squash Championship took place at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, from June 9 to 14. 

(NAN)