By Aderonke Ojo
China’s Hengzhi Cui won the boys’ singles title at the first week of the 2026 NASCO/ITF J30 World Tennis Tour Junior Championship in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the tournament began on June 1 and concluded on June 7 at the Tennis Complex of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
Cui delivered a commanding performance in the final, defeating Nigeria’s Elisha Kwange 6-2, 6-2 to claim the Under-18 boys’ singles crown.
The Chinese player enjoyed a dominant run throughout the competition.
He defeated Divine Nkolo 6-1, 6-0 in the quarter-finals before overcoming American Elliott Awomoyi 6-1, 6-4 in the semi-finals.
Kwange also impressed on his journey to the final. He defeated China’s Jinxuan Cheng 6-1, 6-4 in the quarter-finals before defeating compatriot Seyi Ogunsakin 6-1, 6-2 in the semi-finals.
Speaking after his victory, Cui expressed delight at winning the title during his first visit to Nigeria.
“I am very happy to be in Nigeria for the first time and to win the championship. It is a great feeling for me,” he said.
The champion said he would focus on improving his game ahead of the second week of the tournament.
“I will prepare well for the second week, work on the areas where I need improvement and hopefully win another trophy,” he said.
Cui also thanked his mother for her support throughout his tennis career.
Earlier, the boys’ doubles title, Seyi Ogunsakin and Elliott Awomoyi emerged champions after defeating Elisha Kwange and Gbolahon Olawale 6-3, 6-3 in the final.
NAN reports that the second week of the 2026 NASCO/ITF J30 World Tennis Tour Junior Championship will hold from June 8 to June 13 at the same venue.
A total of 14 countries participated in the competition.
The countries are hosts Nigeria, Cameroon, China, Great Britain, Canada, Sri Lanka, Liberia, Lithuania, India, Togo, Benin Republic, the United States, Sweden and France.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
