Nigeria’s top-ranked tennis player, Daniel Adeleye, delivered a three-set victory against Abdulaziz Usmonjonov of Uzbekistan on Saturday 7th of February, 2026. His 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 win at the Lagos Lawn Tennis Club leveled the Davis Cup World Group II playoff tie.
Adeleye displayed composure after conceding the first set. He then raised his intensity during the second set. Consequently, he dictated rallies to secure a commanding 6-2 set win and force a decider.
The final set remained tightly contested with both players holding firm. However, Adeleye secured a decisive late break of serve. He then calmly served out the match before an energetic home crowd.
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Historical context
The victory holds special weight within Nigeria’s Davis Cup history. The national team first competed in the tournament five decades ago in 1974. Its peak came during the late 1980s with consecutive Europe/Africa Group I semifinal appearances.
However, the following years presented challenges and relegation. Recently, the team has engineered a steady revival. This promotion to the World Group II playoffs marks an important milestone for Nigerian tennis.
The tie’s outcome now dictates Sunday’s remaining matches. These include the doubles rubber and two reverse singles fixtures. A host of Nigerian sports officials witnessed the dramatic opening day.
Adeleye’s resilient win provides a powerful platform for the team’s final day push.
