Etoro Bassey produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Success Ogunjobi 3-6, 6-0, 6-3 and claim the women’s singles title at the 2026 CBN Open Tennis Championship in Abuja.
The fifth seed recovered brilliantly after dropping the opening set, storming through the second without conceding a game before holding her nerve in the decider to secure one of the biggest titles of her young career.
The victory marks a major milestone for Bassey, who is only in her second year on the senior circuit and continues to establish herself as one of Nigeria’s brightest emerging tennis stars.
Speaking after lifting the trophy on Saturday, an elated Bassey praised Ogunjobi for making the final a fiercely contested encounter.
“She’s a very good player. She gave me a tough time, especially because my backhand wasn’t working well at the beginning of the match. That made me stronger because I knew I had to accept the challenge and keep fighting.”
The new champion said winning the national title would only spur her to work even harder as she pursues her dream of playing professional tennis.
“I don’t settle for less. I want to keep winning and remain a champion. My dream is to become a professional tennis player, and I know I have to keep working hard.”
Bassey also dedicated the victory to her father and the coaches at Jeans Tennis Academy for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
“I want to thank my dad for always supporting me and believing in me. I’m also grateful to my academy for everything they have done for my development.”
Women’s Doubles
Although Bassey celebrated success in the singles event, she narrowly missed out on completing a memorable double.
Success Ogunjobi teamed up with top seed Khadijat Mohammed to defeat the pair of Etoro Bassey and Favour James 6-2, 6-7(2), 10-6 in a thrilling women’s doubles final.
Men’s Doubles
In the men’s doubles final, the duo of Canice Abua and Emmanuel Musa delivered a commanding performance to defeat Michael Emmanuel and Sylvanus Ajang 6-3, 6-1 and lift the championship trophy.
Bassey’s Road to the Crown
Bassey launched her title campaign with a commanding 6-1, 6-0 victory over Khadijat Salami in the second round before overcoming a series of challenging opponents on her way to the championship.
Other notable second-round results included:
– Khadijat Mohammed defeated Timipre Maxwell 6-1, 6-1.
– Toluwalase Mohammed defeated Destiny Agunbiade (WC) 6-1, 6-0.
– Prosper Ohima (Q) defeated Opeyemi Oladimeji 7-6(3), 6-4.
– Precious Godwin defeated Favour Ohima (Q) 6-3, 6-2.
– Mary Udofa (4) defeated Omotayo Ogunjobi 6-4, 4-6, 6-1.
– Blessing Ibrahim-Jatto defeated Emmanuella Otu 6-1, 6-2.
– Jesutoyosi Adeusi rallied past Gloria Samuel (WC) 0-6, 7-5, 7-6(1).
– Bumi Ogunjobi defeated Success Are 6-0, 6-0.
– Mary Azi (LL) defeated Salvation Alex 2-6, 7-6(6), 6-3.
– Esther Aigbangbe defeated Adesewa Olaniyan (Q) 6-1, 6-0.
– Emmanuella Suwa (WC) defeated Nenrot Suwa 6-1, 5-7, 6-4.
– Blessing Bassey upset seventh seed Blessing Omotayo 6-0, 1-6, 6-4.
– Blessing Omotayo (Q) defeated Loveth Anuna 6-1, 4-0 (retired).
– Abosede Bamidele defeated Ogah Bamidele (Q) 6-2, 6-2.
– Mary Godwin defeated Sarah Emmanuel (LL) 6-1, 6-2.
The final Round of 32 fixture saw second seed Bright Emmanuel-Essien defeat Punariman Bajo 6-1, 6-4.
Read also:
- Top Seeds Stay on Course as CBN Tennis Championship Reaches Thrilling Stage
- CBN Tennis Championship 2026: Top Seeds Progress as Title Race Intensifies in Abuja
- Men, Women Top Seeds Advance In CBN Tennis Championship
Meanwhile, tennis enthusiasts packed the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Tennis Centre for the men’s singles final match of the tournament between Michael Emmanuel and Canice Abua, creating an electric atmosphere as spectators eagerly awaited the crowning of the 2026 CBN Open senior men’s singles champion.
The 2026 CBN Open once again showcased the growing depth of Nigerian tennis, with Etoro Bassey’s fighting spirit and memorable comeback standing out as one of the defining moments of an exciting championship.
