Runners up in the Junior U-16 boys event at the maiden GSM Tennis Championship in 2020, Michael Akinmusire, is aiming to cause upset by winning the Senior Boys category on his debut appearance, this year.
Playing in the Junior Boys category last time out, Michael lost in the final to wonderkid Mubarak Ganiyu 5-7, 7-1, 6-2 in the final, despite not dropping a single set prior to the final.
Michael has already cruised to the quarter finals of the Men’s Singles of this year’s edition, having defeated Alonge Samuel in straight sets in the first round and Jamiu Mufutau in the second round.
He told BCOS Sports reporter Boluwaji Ogunmola that his aim is to cause upset in the championship and eventually win the Senior Men’s singles title.
“I try to take all available points because I know every point is vital in the senior category. I know I must fight and make up points, I must be serious so I can win the match” he said.
Speaking on his first and second round games, Michael attributed his victories to hard work.
“I played really well, I didn’t give my opponents chance so that the games won’t be difficult for me, I won the two games in straight sets” Michael said.
“I just want to make it to the final, keep causing upsets and eventually win the title” he concluded.
In other games already decided, Michael’s quarter final opponent Olanrewaju Ajibade defeated Ajao Olusegun and Chukwueze Kelechi in the first and second round respectively.
In the other Men’s singles quarterfinal pairing, Toriola Isiaka will face Musa Abdullahi, Aborishade Seun will play Adewale Samson.
In the Junior U-16 boys category, defending Champion Ganiyu Mubarak was drawn bye, and will face Ghazal Ashim in the second round today (Tuesday) afternoon.
Mubarak told BCOS Sport he is confident he will retain the title he won at the maiden edition of the GSM Tennis Championship in 2020.
“You should be expecting me in the finals, playing in the final and winning the final, I am confindent of winning the Championship again” Mubarak said.
In other second round pairing, Aliyu Glory will face John Ilerioluwa, Ogunjiofor will play Odeyale Marvelous, Awe David will take on Olaniyan Olatunbosun, Segun Monday will slug it out with Awe Daniel.
Also Lawal Ahmed will battle Adetola Tomiwa, Rasaq Abdulbasit will confront Owolabi Ajibola while Austin Joseph will play against Awe Damilare.
In the Senior Ladies category, Abiodun Daborah will face Afolabi Taiwo in the quarter final, while other quarter -final pairings will be decided later in the day.
The second edition of the GSM Tennis Championship runs from Monday Feb 28 to March 3, 2022 at the centre and training courts of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba Ibadan.
