Nigeria’s tennis players Christopher Bulus and Michael Emmanuel secured victories as the Davis Cup 2024 Africa Group III qualifying matches began on Tuesday, Completesports.com reports.
The games, played at the tennis center inside MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, thrilled fans.
Read Also: Kobe Bryant’s Father, Joe Bryant, Dies At 69
Bulus defeated Zimbabwe’s Benjamin (3-6, 6-2, 6-3), while Emmanuel came from behind to secure a (2-6, 6-1, 6-3) victory over Courtney.
Other countries participating in the tournament include Benin, Zimbabwe, Cote d’ Ivoire, Namibia and Ghana.
Earlier before the commencement of the game, the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, declared the tournament open, noting that it is one of the nation’s strongest sports, with passionate support from its citizens.
“I urge the athletes to seize this opportunity with both hands. I am rooting for Nigerian athletes to secure promotion to the next stage. The country is behind them, and we are hosting to win,” he stated.
The minister assured the six participating countries of a warm welcome and a successful tournament.
Also, the President of the Nigeria Tennis Federation, Dayo Akindoju, welcomed all participants to Nigeria, assuring them of the country’s hospitality throughout the tournament.
He also commended the minister for his dedication to being present at the opening ceremony, noting its significance for the sport.
By Dotun Omisakin
