Nigeria’s top-ranked tennis player, Daniel Adeleye, produced a spirited comeback to defeat Uzbekistan’s Abdulaziz Usmonjonov in the Davis Cup World Group II Playoffs on Saturday in Lagos, keeping Nigeria’s hopes alive in the tie.

Adeleye recovered from the loss of the opening set to secure a hard-fought 4-6, 6-2, 6-4 victory, earning a crucial point for the home side in front of an energetic Lagos crowd.

Usmonjonov began the encounter on the front foot, relying on his consistency and strong court coverage to edge the first set. However, Adeleye responded with authority in the second set, raising his intensity and taking control of rallies as he repeatedly pressured his opponent’s serve to level the match with a commanding 6-2 win.

The deciding set was fiercely contested, with both players showing resilience and refusing to concede ground. Backed by vocal home support, Adeleye demonstrated maturity in the crucial moments, securing a late break before calmly serving out the match to seal a memorable victory.

Speaking after the match, the Nigerian number one underscored the importance of mental strength in turning the contest around.

“I knew I had to be patient and trust my game, even after losing the first set. Playing at home gives me extra motivation, and I’m happy I could deliver for the team,” Adeleye said.

The victory underlined Adeleye’s importance to Nigeria’s Davis Cup campaign, as his performance reignited the team’s challenge in the World Group II Playoffs and lifted hopes of a positive outcome for the hosts.