Vietnam's top tennis player Ly Hoang Nam was crowned champion at the men's singles event of the 2016 Vietnam F5 Men’s Futures tournament, after beating his Japanese rival Masato Shiga 2-0, in the final in the southern province of Binh Duong on September 25.

Nam, who is currently ranked 952nd in the world compared to his Japanese rival at 631st, made a surprise in Binh Duong yesterday.

The 19-year-old player, held a great desire to win a championship title for the first time at the tournament, even though it is the lowest level of the International Tennis Federation’s agenda, made an excellent performance with precise shots and reasonable movement.

He did not give his rival a wide lead and showed extreme perseverance. Then in the 10th game, Masato Shiga was unable to take advantage and failed to deliver the ball, allowing Nam to win the game and the also claim a 6-4victory in the first set.

Entering the second set, Nam retained his excitement, going on to overwhelm his opponent. He led 4-1 and then 6-2 to win the final.

The victory helped Nam become the first Vietnamese player to be crowned at a tournament in the professional tennis system.

A day ago, Nam and his teammate Nguyen Hoang Thien were also crowned champions in the men's doubles event at the same tournament. This is also the first men's doubles professional tennis title for Vietnam.

Men's Futures series, including nine events from F1 to F9, are running from July 25 to November 6 in Binh Duong, with the participation of 68 players from 41 countries and territories.

Nhan Dan