The fourth edition of the Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament concluded on a high note at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, spotlighting a new generation of squash champions and reinforcing Nigeria’s growing potential in the sport. The tournament, which continues to be a key fixture in the national squash calendar, witnessed breakthrough performances, most notably from teenage sensation Yusuf Quadri, who achieved a rare double triumph.
At just 17 years old, Quadri delivered a performance that reverberated through the squash community by becoming the first player to win both the Under-19 and senior men’s titles at the same edition of the tournament. His achievement not only set a historic benchmark but also underscored the narrowing gap between junior and elite-level squash in Nigeria.
A Champion’s Resolve: Quadri Dominates in Back-to-Back Finals
Quadri's path to the senior title required not just skill but exceptional endurance. Just hours after overcoming Joshua Daniel 3-1 in the U-19 final, he returned to court to face Farouk Sulaimon, Nigeria’s No. 3-ranked senior player. Undeterred by fatigue or the challenge before him, Quadri rallied to a 3-1 win, capping a day of personal triumph and national significance.
“I played like a champion all through the tournament,” said an elated Quadri after his second win of the day. “This motivates me to train harder and come back even stronger next year.”
A rising squash star and defending champion, Yusuf Quadri, receiving awards at the Lagos State and Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament. Photo: A rising squash star and defending champion, Yusuf Quadri, receiving awards at the Lagos State and Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament organisers
Rofiat Abdulazeez Retains Women's Title in Hard-Fought Victory
In the women’s category, Rofiat Abdulazeez, the tournament’s top seed, once again proved her class by defeating a spirited Faridat Soliu 3-1 to claim her second consecutive title. The encounter was intense, as Soliu pushed Abdulazeez to adapt and fight for every point.
“I knew it wouldn’t be easy,” Abdulazeez said. “But I stayed calm and followed my game plan. Faridat really pushed me—I respect her effort.”
Despite falling short in the final, Soliu expressed pride in her performance and determination to improve.
“It hurts to lose, but I’m proud of my journey. I’ll learn from this and come back stronger,” she said.
Aisha Abdulazeez Clinches Junior Girls' Crown
The girls’ Under-19 final also showcased emerging talent, with Aisha Abdulazeez—likely drawing inspiration from her namesake and senior counterpart—delivering a dominant display to defeat Zainab Ishola in straight sets (3-0). Her calm composure and technical finesse earned her the junior title and admiration from spectators.
Federation Praises Growth and Promise of Nigerian Squash
Speaking at the event’s conclusion, Mr. Boye Oyerinde, President of the Nigeria Squash Federation, commended both the Lagos State Squash Association and Prime Atlantic for their unwavering commitment to advancing squash at all levels.
“The level of talent we’re seeing is outstanding,” he noted. “This tournament keeps pushing players to new heights. We’re excited about the future.”
With strong grassroots support, continued private sector backing, and rising stars like Yusuf Quadri and Aisha Abdulazeez, the future of Nigerian squash appears to be entering a promising new era.