AFRICA’S number two ranked player in the U-14 category, Michael Osewa penultimate Sunday stunned Stephen Augustine of Akwa Ibom State to win the 17th edition of the NNPC/Chevron Junior Tennis Master Championship.
It was the Ondo State-born lad’s first victory over his opponent after seven meetings and it came in grand style.
The championship which was initiated in 2000 has produced stars who are now representing the country at both regional and continental Junior championships.
Speaking after the game, Osewa said he’s so overwhelmed to have emerged as the the winner of this championship despite the difficult second sets.
“I am so glad to have claimed the top prize this year because this is my first final in the last three years of participation and I thank God for the victory.
“I am number two in the rankings but my target is to become number one in Africa and in the world rankings as I am working towards it. I believe I will be there in a very short time.
“I really appreciate the organisers for introduing this championship, this is the prime of our career and I look forward to meeting my role model, Novaj Djokovic, someday, even though people say I always play like Gael Monfils,” an elated Osewa told Tribunesport.
Meanwhile, finalist, Augustine told Tribunesport that he was shocked by the defeat.
“I was leading 5-2 in the second set and before I knew what was happening, we were tied on 6-6. In fact, this is the first time I have lost to him after seven meetings. I don’t know what came over me that I lost concentration towards the end of the game.
“The final stage was difficult for me, I was so tired and that allowed Osewa to control the game but I believe this is a big lesson for me. I just need to move on with my career because I’m not there yet,” he said.
In his speech, Chairman/Managing Director, Chevron Nigeria, Andrew Fawthrop gave kudos to the finalists for showing their skill during the saying they will go places through their enthusiasm.
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