French- Nigerian-born Calvin Hemery failed in his spirited effort to win the second leg (Futures 6) of 16th edition of the Lagos Governor’s Cup last Saturday.
Hemery,whose father is a Nigerian, was a delight to watch with his determination, as he gave the tournament number one, Enrique Lopez-Perez of Spain, a run for his money.
Despite the drizzle of rain that disrupted the second set, the men’s final decided at the centre court of the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club, Onikan which eventually lasted over three hors lived up to its billings.
Hemery who created a mild drama during the first set when he flung his racket after he lost a point bowed to Lopez-Perez in straight set of 5-7, 5-7. Hemery, the tournament number two seed, who lost out in the quarter final of the first leg (Futures 5), was cheered all the way by guests, including the representative of the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Tunji Bello, who is the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
Hemery speaking after the match said he was so happy coming to Lagos to play in the Governor’s Cup Tennis for the first time, adding that he would love to represent Nigeria someday if he is given the opportunity.
Bello, who stood in for Governor Ambode, said that the Lagos State government will always support the competition given its numerous values to the development and projection of Lagos as one of the emerging mega cities of the world.
It was, however, a sweet revenge for Conny Perrin of Switzerland beating her perennial foe, Tadeja Majeric from Slovakia in ithe thrilling final of the women’s singles that ended in 6-3, 6-3. Majeric, it will be recalled, defeated Perrin to win the first leg (Futures 5).
“I’m happy to win this competition, not so surprised because I had won it before and more importantly my opponent, Majeric is a good player. It is always tough playing against her. She beat me in the final last week,” an elated Perrin said adding “I was rated 230th in the world, but with my performance in this tournament I should make the top 200.”
