Nigeria’s men’s tennis team has written a new chapter in the country’s sporting history, qualifying for the Davis Cup World Group II for the first time in nearly three decades after a hard-fought 3–1 victory over Uzbekistan in Lagos.
The decisive World Group II Playoffs tie was staged over two days at the iconic Lagos Lawn Tennis Club 1895, Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, with Nigeria overturning an early setback to outclass their higher-ranked opponents in front of a passionate home crowd.
Day One: Uzbekistan Strike First, Adeleye Leads Nigerian Fightback
The two-day encounter began with an early advantage for the visitors as Khumoyun Sultanov (ATP 615) defeated Nigeria’s Canice Abua in straight sets, 6–3, 6–4, handing Uzbekistan, ranked 49th in the world, the opening point of the tie.
Nigeria responded immediately in the second rubber through their number one player, Daniel Adeleye, who produced a gritty comeback to level the contest.
Despite battling cramps, Adeleye recovered from losing the opening set to defeat Abdelaziz Usmonjonov 4–6, 6–2, 6–4, restoring parity for the home side and igniting belief inside the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club.
Day Two: Nigerian Doubles Shock Former ATP Star
The momentum swung decisively on the second day during the doubles rubber.
Former ATP top-30 player Denis Istomin teamed up with Sultanov to face the Nigerian duo of Canice Abua and Michael Emmanuel.
Against expectations, the Abuja-based pair stood firm against the experienced Uzbekistani combination.
Nigeria forced the opening set into a tiebreak and held their nerve, winning it 7–3 to take the set 7–6 (3).
One crucial break of serve in the second set was enough to seal a famous 6–4 victory, giving Nigeria a 2–1 lead in the tie.
Daniel Adeleye Delivers the Knockout Blow
With qualification on the line, Uzbekistan turned to Ilya Ignatov (ATP 1945) for the reverse singles, but standing in his way once again was Adeleye.
Ignatov started strongly, racing to a 2–0 lead, but buoyed by the roaring home crowd, Adeleye found his rhythm, broke serve, and surged ahead to take the first set 6–3.
The Ekiti State-born player maintained his composure in the second set, closing out a 6–4 win to secure Nigeria’s third point and confirm a 3–1 victory.
The result promoted the 74th-ranked Nigerian team to World Group II for the first time in about 30 years.
“This Is Just the Beginning” – NTF President Victor Ochei
A visibly delighted President of the Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF), Victor Ochei, described the achievement as the fulfilment of a clear promise.
“The target is actually World Group I as I mentioned during the press conference we had a few weeks ago, and this is just one of the steps to ensure that happens,” Ochei said.
Daniel Adeleye: “We Believed in Ourselves”
Nigeria’s hero of the tie, Daniel Adeleye, credited belief, hard work, and home support for the historic success.
“We believed in ourselves and worked hard to achieve the win and with the same level of determination and hard work coupled with the support of Nigerians as witnessed in Lagos we will get to the top,” he said.
Speaking specifically about his comeback win against Usmonjonov, Adeleye added:
“I knew I had to be patient and trust my game, even after losing the first set. Playing at home gives me extra motivation, and I’m happy I could deliver for the team.”
Lagos Lawn Tennis Club Ready to Host Again
With the World Group II ties scheduled for September 2026, venue details are yet to be confirmed by the International Tennis Federation (ITF).
However, the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club has already declared its readiness.
Club President Dr Adeyinka Adewusi reaffirmed the club’s status as a continental powerhouse.
“We have had the biggest names in tennis visit our club, Arthur Ashe, the Williams sisters, and many others,” he said.
“Our commitment to maintaining top-tier facilities means we are ready at all times and we would be glad to host Nigeria’s matches again.”
What Next for Nigeria
Nigeria will learn their World Group II opponents when the ITF releases the official draw following the conclusion of all World Group I playoff ties.
