Yusuf Quadri made history yesterday by becoming the first junior player to win both the U-19 and senior men’s categories at the fourth edition of the Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament, held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

Quadri, who displayed exceptional skill and stamina throughout the competition, defeated Farouk Sulaimon, Nigeria’s number three-ranked player, 3-1 in the senior final to claim the coveted title.

Earlier in the day, he had triumphed over Joshua Daniel in the U-19 final, sealing a 3-1 victory to complete his unprecedented double.

Speaking after his win, Quadri said he was determined to succeed despite the tough competition.

“I played like a champion all through the tournament. I feel motivated to train harder and come back stronger next year,” he said.

In the women’s category, Nigeria’s top-ranked female player, Rofiat Abdulazeez, retained her title after defeating Faridat Soliu 3-1, marking her second consecutive championship win at the tournament.

Abdulazeez said she remained focused throughout the match and credited her opponent for putting up a strong fight.

“I knew it wasn’t going to be easy, but I stayed calm and stuck to my game plan. Faridat gave me a tough time, and I respect her a lot for that,” she said.

Soliu, who reached the final with hopes of a comeback, expressed disappointment but remained optimistic.

“It’s painful to come so close and lose, but I’m proud of my journey in this tournament. I’ll take the lessons and improve,” she said.

In the Under-19 girls’ final, Aisha Abdulazeez overcame Zainab Ishola in straight sets, winning 3-0 to lift the junior title.

President of the Nigeria Squash Federation, Mr Boye Oyerinde, applauded the Lagos State Squash Association and Prime Atlantic for their consistency in organising the event.

“This is commendable. The players keep challenging themselves year in, year out. This tournament has done well.

“We are looking forward to more tournaments. Our players are a bundle of talent,” he said.

The tournament, which featured top-ranked youth and senior players, ended on a celebratory note for some and a reflective one for others, as winners marked their triumphs and others vowed to return stronger.