TPPA to groom Nigeria's Djokovic and Serena through junior tournament

TPPA to groom Nigeria's Djokovic and Serena through junior tournament

Hassan Abdulsalam 10:52 - 03.04.2024

Nothing less than 70 young tennis players from various regions across Nigeria are ready to compete at the 2024 TPPA UTR National Junior Tennis Classics which will held at the Lagos Country Club, Wild cards will also be offered to additional participants.

The Tennis Players’ Parents Association (TPPA) have declared that they are on a mission to cultivate Nigerian tennis talent and develop the next generation of superstars for the country.

TPPA, in preparation for the annual UTR National Junior Tennis Classics, will provide a platform for young players to compete and showcase their skills.

Segun Aluko Believes in Nigerian Potential

TPPA President Segun Aluko is confident that Nigeria can produce tennis stars like Novak Djokovic and the Williams sisters.

However, he acknowledges the challenges of funding, commitment, and sponsorships are crucial for propelling young talents to the top.

TPPA President Segun Aluko

He said, “We can raise players such as Novak Djokovic and the Williams sisters in Nigeria because we have the players. However, bringing up tennis stars involves a lot of funds and commitments.

“We will need sponsors for these Stars and when they eventually become the Superstars, they will not only grab the headline as individuals but their nationality will also be mentioned as Nigerians."

Over 70 players set for 2024 TPPA UTR National Junior Tennis Classics

Nothing less than 70 young tennis players from various regions across Nigeria are ready to compete at the 2024 TPPA UTR National Junior Tennis Classics which will take place at the Lagos Country Club. Wild cards will also be offered to additional participants.

The week-long competition culminates in a grand finale on April 8th, featuring winners from earlier regional championships.

A unique advantage of the tournament is its certification by the Universal Tennis Ranking (UTR) system. Rankings achieved in the competition are recognized worldwide, offering valuable exposure for young players.

Focus on Transition and Development

Aluko emphasizes the importance of a smooth transition from junior to senior ranks a missing link in Nigerian tennis development.

He highlights TPPA's commitment to providing opportunities and support for this crucial stage.

“Last year, we held about seven tournaments and this year also we are planning a bigger tournament wherein we will allow every aspiring tennis player to showcase their talents.

“We will be having the grand finale of the 2024 TPPA UTR National Junior Tennis Classics here at the Lagos Country Club and will end on the 13th of April.

“The idea of the tournament is to have a rich pool of the best of young tennis Stars across Nigeria to come and compete among themselves in Lagos.

“Our target is to attract the biggest Clay Court tournament in West Africa, with the best ones from Nigeria. Currently, we have the record as Number One in West Africa and also East Africa,” Aluko said.

Building a Pipeline of Talent

The TPPA aspires to create a rich pool of young tennis talent in Nigeria. Their long-term vision includes attracting the biggest Clay Court tournament in West Africa, featuring the best Nigerian players.

The association aims to expand its reach beyond Nigeria, inviting participation from other West African countries in future editions of the TPPA UTR National Junior Tennis Classics.

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