Isreali duo – Misha Zilberman and Kesnja Polikarpova – have emerged winners of the 4th Lagos International Badminton Classics, which ended on Saturday at the Teslim Balogun Stadium
Zilberman beat his opponent from Malaysia, Misbun Ramdan Mohmed Misbun 2-1 to win the men’s singles, while Polikarpova defeated Indian Sri Kreshna Priya Kudaralu 2-1 to win the women’s singles top prize of the highest paid Badminton Classics in Africa.
However, Indian players dominated the doubles events. The duo of Kuhuo Garg and Riya Mookerjee won the men’s doubles, while the pair of Attri Manu and Reddy Sumeeth were winners of the women’s doubles.
Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Dr Kweku Adedayo Tandoh was happy with the outing of Nigerian players, especially the women in this year’s competition which attracted 24 nations across the world.
One of the players, Dorcas Adesokan fought her ways to the semi-finals, while Amin Vop Christopher got to the quarter finals. In the men’s singles, Opeyori Anuoluwapo made it to the quarter final stage.
“This was a good outing for our players and it showed that they are improving. This was a remarkable performance and I want to say that badminton is growing in the country. I believe if these players are exposed to more competitions especially Classics across the world, it will definitely impact on their game positively, “Tandoh stated.
Tandoh thanked Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for providing enabling environment for the organisation of the event.
President of Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih said that successes recorded in the competition since inception was made possible through the support of the Lagos State Government. “I’m glad that we have been laying a good platform upon which a solid legacy for badminton in Nigeria and Lagos State is being built.
“I want to appreciate the Lagos State Government, our partners and the media for the tremendous support we have received since inception. I have no doubt that the success achieved so far will sustain the vision of developing the sports and lift Lagos International Badminton Classics to a greater height,” Orbih said.