Russian Nedelko swings way out of ITF rain delay
Russian ace Nedelko was untouchable throughout the three weeks. PHOTO BY JOHN BATANUDDE
Russian Ivan Nedelko with an ATP singles ranking of 441 and career high ATP doubles ranking of 674, emerged winner the men’s singles title at the 2019 International Tennis Federation World Tennis Pro Circuit at Kampala Club, Nakasero yesterday.
The day started at Lugogo Tennis Club but a heavy morning downpour interrupted play as Nedelko led Lebanese Giovanni Samaha 6-3.
Organisers were forced to look around for another venue for hours as the competition could not stretch into another day. Change in venue however saw Samaha retiring from the contest due to injury, handing Nedelko a third title in as many weeks.
“It’s satisfying to win all the three tournaments here in Uganda. Am confident and in good shape, hopefully the last three weeks have prepared me well for other events in Europe,” Nedelko told Daily Monitor. The event had a cash prize of $15,000 (about Shs56m) to be shared with Nedelko taking the bigger share for his exploits.
In the doubles final, Irishman Bradley Julian and Burundian Guy Orly Iradukunda defeated India’s top seeded pair of Chandrasekar Anirudh and Kaliyanda Poonacha 6-4, 3-6, 10-6 for the title. Uganda had David Oringa, Frank Tayebwa, Simon Ayella and Edward Birungi as representatives for the three-week event but the quadruple had little to smile about in the end, save for the experience as they gear up for the Davis Cup meet in Congo Brazaville next month.
“Such opportunities don’t come every day, I have got the chance to play against some really good players who have played all over the world. I have learnt some new things which can be helpful in my career,” Tayebwa told this paper.
2019 ITF UG WORLD TOUR MEN SINGLES FINAL
*Ivan Nedelko bt. Giovani Samaha (retired)
(6-3, 3-1)
MEN DOUBLES FINAL
*Bradley Julian /Guy Iradukunda bt.
Chandrasekar Anirudh / Kaliyanda Poonacha
(6-4, 3-6, 10-6)
