Young Talents Shine as Tennis Steals the Show at 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin

Tennis has become one of the biggest attractions at the second edition of the Niger Delta Games, drawing loud cheers and applause from packed terraces at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

Enthusiasts, athletes, and neutrals alike have been captivated by the intensity of singles, doubles, and mixed doubles matches, as all nine participating states chase podium finishes.

The renovated tennis arena has restored its shine, offering young players a rare opportunity to compete on standard courts. For many, the excitement of playing in such facilities has been as memorable as the competition itself.

According to Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, this is the true essence of the Games, providing young athletes from villages and towns across the Niger Delta with exposure to facilities that can accelerate their development.

What has particularly thrilled spectators is the sight of very young players battling bravely against older opponents. While the Games are pegged at under-20, the tennis courts have seen remarkable participation from much younger athletes, especially among the ladies.

One such standout is 10-year-old Karina Opuene of Bayelsa State. Though she exited in the second round of the singles, the primary six pupil of Immaculate Ideas Academy in Yenagoa gained invaluable experience.

Nervous but eager when approached for a media chat, she revealed her admiration for world number one Aryna Sabalenka and spoke of her dream to emulate Serena Williams at the grand slam level.

Already, she has represented Nigeria at U-12 tournaments across Africa, making her one to watch for the future.

Edo State’s Lorelay Holzendorff S Peer has also emerged as a star attraction. Brimming with confidence, she powered her way into the semifinals of the ladies’ singles and declared her ambition to follow in Serena Williams’ footsteps by dominating the world stage.

‘It has been fun and an experience for me as a player. I have made new friends, and though this is not my first tournament in Nigeria, it is my first Niger Delta Games. Hard work has brought me here, and I am looking forward to reaching the final. My target is to make a name for myself and play at European level, not just in Nigeria,’ she said