2019 CBN Senior Open semifinalist, Joseph Imeh says he is focused on winning the 2020 edition of the tournament despite threat from defending champion, Sylvester Emmanuel.
Imeh, who has never won the CBN Senior Open title revealed his training routine ahead of the tournament and how he coped during the Covid-19 lockdown.
“I’ve been indoors, with less training and i do more of fitness. I didn’t get play that much, its very tough to start explaining how it has been for the past 6-7 months.”
“That period felt very awkward and weird for me, but i had no choice than to just adapt to the situation. Thank God we’ve come through it.”
Jospeh Imeh in action
“I am not 100%, but i think i am like 70% ready. With the confidence in me and the experience I’ve had in the past, i believe by God’s grace i can actually perform well in the upcoming CBN.” He said.
Joseph Imeh lost to Abdulmumin Babalola in the 2017 final, lost to Sylvester Emmanuel in 2018 Quaterfinals, lost to Abdulmumin Babalola in 2019 semifinals, but has played down any threat from Babalola.
“Honestly no pressure, but i pray everything turns out well for me and i am able to give my best and hopefully come out the winner. I’ve never won it before and this year 2020, i want to win.”
Jospeh Imeh and CBN Senior Open defending champion, Sylvester Emmanuel
“Sylvester Emmanuel is a big threat, i don’t want to count Babalola as a threat because this time, i don’t think he’s [Abdulmumin Babalola] going to pass through me. There won’t be room for any error.” Imeh said.
The former Nigerian number one feels, if the people in charge of Tennis in Nigeria can come together to brainstorm for way forward, then there can be a progress in the sport.
“It’s not going to be an easy one, but if the people in the sport can come together and put heads together, that will probably bring a bit of change in the sport.” He concluded.
