Nigeria’s Inyang retains tennis crown in New York

Nigeria junior player, Gabriel Inyang has retained the Boys’ U-12 title at the Beco International Tennis Championship in New York.

Inyang, who will be 12 later this month, defeated American Alexander Wenberg 8-6 in a keenly-contested final of the tournament.

The Victoria Garden City Club of Lagos super kid represented the IMG Academy in the tournament that featured over 30 kids. The IMG Academy with its headquarters in Bandenton, Florida is a global reputable sports academy with preparatory experience in various sports. The victory is the third straight year Gabriel will be there on a two-month training programme.

“It was a great match because the American boy was playing so well but Gabriel was determined to win because I promised to reward him with gifts. He was so happy and all the coaches were commending him,” Gabriel’s dad, Richard, who doubles as his coach, said on phone at the weekend.

Gabriel made his debut for Nigeria in April emerging as Nigeria’s best performer at the ITF/CAT West and Central Africa 12 and Under Championship in Lagos, winning two of his three singles matches.

Richard disclosed that the victory has set the tone for what should be another memorable outing when the talented prospect steps on court for the Freiburg tournament in early August in Florida.

“The priority here is to train and develop his skills but we are getting used to celebrating victory and as such we will work harder to make sure that we win the next tournament in Florida,” Richard said.

At the 2016 Freiberg tournament, Gabriel defeated American Jack Patricof 6-3, 6-1 to win the top prize.