Ojo Onaolapo from Ondo State on Friday in Abuja emerged champion of the 11th Aso Table Tennis Club National Championship by winning the men’s singles title.

Italy-based Onaolapo, who was Nigeria’s number six and tournament’s second seed, defeated Seun Ajetunmobi from Taraba state 4-3 (11-9, 5-11, 11-9, 4-11, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9) in the final match of the championship.

He used especially powerful serves, to beat his opponent who is Portugal-based Ajetunmobi and Nigeria’s number three and tournament’s number one seed.

The five-day championship was held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Abuja National Stadium.

Speaking later, Onaolapo told newsmen that it was difficult to beat Ajetunmobi.

“I am happy that I won, because the match was tough and it was difficult to beat Ajetunmobi.

“I tried to be focused because we both are left-handed players, which made it a bit difficult for me. I just thank God,’’ Onaolapo said.

Ajetunmobi, on his part, noted that it was also a tough match.

“It tried my best to win the game, but unfortunately I lost. It was really a tough match.

“I have always said that Onaolapo would be my greatest threat in this championship because I know that he is a very good player.

“But, I thank God, because we cannot always be winners,’’ Ajetunmobi said.

Animashaun Abayomi from Ekiti defeated teammate Martins Abayomi 3-2 (11-8, 8-11, 7-11, 11-7, 13-11) to emerge winner of the Cadet Boys singles category.

Sunday Akomolafe from Ondo State also lost to teammate Amadi Umeh 4-1 (7-11, 12-10, 11-7, 11-7, 11-7).

NAN reports that more than 200 players from 25 states and the FCT participated in the championship.

The championship, which was held in collaboration with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), began on Tuesday.(NAN)