Yusuf  Retains Prime Atlantic Squash Double Crown

Quadri Yusuf successfully defended his titles in the Under-19 and Senior Men’s categories of the Prime Atlantic Squash Tournament, overcoming Giwa in two gripping five-set finals to complete a remarkable double for the second consecutive year.

Yusuf defeated Giwa 3-2 in both the U-19 and Senior Men’s finals, replicating the feat he achieved during the 2025 edition of the tournament.

In the women’s U-19 final, Loveth Balogun edged Zainab Ishola 3-2 in a closely contested encounter, while defending champion Rofiat Abdulazeez maintained her dominance in the Senior Women’s category with a convincing 3-0 victory over Misturah Durosinlorun.

Speaking after his triumph, Yusuf described the victories as special, noting that defending both titles was more difficult than winning them for the first time.

“I’m very happy to win both categories again. It shows that the hard work and sacrifices throughout the year have paid off. “Winning once can be difficult, but defending the titles is even harder because everyone wants to beat you.

Giwa pushed me to my limits in both finals and I had to stay focused from beginning to end.

“What makes this victory more satisfying is seeing how much we have all improved.

“The level of squash keeps rising every year and that is good for the sport in Nigeria,” he said.

Reflecting on his rivalry with Giwa, Yusuf said both players had matured significantly since their fierce battles at the 2025 edition.

“Last year was like a battlefield. We were younger and more emotional. This year, we showed more maturity, respect and composure on the court.

“We both understand the game better now. We fought hard for every point, but we remained professional throughout. I think that is a positive sign for Nigerian squash,” Yusuf added.

A disappointed but gracious Giwa acknowledged Yusuf’s superiority on the day while expressing determination to return stronger.

“It hurts to lose both finals after coming so close. I gave everything I had and unfortunately it was not enough.

“However, I will take the positives from this experience. Playing in two finals has shown me that I am improving and I believe my time will come. I congratulate Yusuf and I will continue working hard,” Giwa said.

Abdulazeez, who successfully retained her Senior Women’s title, said consistency and discipline were key factors behind her victory.

“I am delighted to defend my title. Every tournament comes with pressure, especially when you are the defending champion.

“I stayed focused on my game plan and tried not to underestimate any opponent. Winning this title again means a lot to me and motivates me to keep improving.

“I also want to commend the organisers and sponsors for creating a platform that allows players to showcase their talents,” she said.

Earlier, Group Managing Director of Prime Atlantic, Ayo Otuyalo, represented by Tobiloba Ariyo, the Marketing, Corporate and Marketing Manager described the tournament as highly competitive, noting that its standard continued to improve annually.

“The quality of matches we have witnessed this year has been exceptional. Every edition of the tournament seems to surpass the previous one.

“We are proud to support a competition that continues to discover talents, develop players and contribute to the growth of squash in Nigeria.

“The level of competitiveness and sportsmanship displayed throughout the tournament gives us confidence that the future of Nigerian squash is bright,” Otuyalo said.

Also speaking, Tomi Falase, the Chairman Lagos State Squash Association commended the players, coaches, referees and sponsors for their contributions to the success of the championship.

“The sponsor have just told me that the fifth edition will be bigger and better because of how impressed he is.

“The same boys that were star performer in 2023, and the star on senior men today that shows growth.

“I must applaud all the players for their dedication and excellent performances throughout the tournament.

“The coaches deserve recognition for their efforts in developing these athletes, while the referees ensured fair play and professionalism.

“We are also grateful to Prime Atlantic for its unwavering support. Their commitment has been instrumental in making this tournament one of the most important squash competitions in the country,” Falase said.

The tournament once again highlighted the growing depth of talent in Nigerian squash, with many observers noting the remarkable maturity displayed by young players during the competition.

Unlike the intense and emotionally charged rivalry witnessed in 2025, this year’s encounters between Yusuf and Giwa reflected significant growth in character, composure and tactical awareness, underlining the steady development of the country’s next generation of squash stars.