Uganda successfully hosted the Junior International Badminton Tournament at the MTN Arena Lugogo, with over 100 players from 13 countries competing across several days of action that ended today.
The event, which served off on February 23, drew athletes from Uganda, Kazakhstan, Algeria, USA, Malaysia, Mauritius, Burundi, Egypt, Zambia, Mexico and Saudi Arabia.
Singles and doubles matches filled the schedule, highlighting emerging talent and reinforcing Uganda’s growing profile as a host of international badminton.
Kazakhstan impressed in the women’s doubles as Alissa Kuleshova and Diana Namenova secured gold after a dominant run. Mauritius pair Tiya Bhutun and Layna Luxmi Chiniah settled for silver following a spirited campaign. Namenova later added a silver medal in women’s singles to complete a strong individual showing.
Algeria took top honors in the men’s doubles through Ayoub Rayan Daoud and Oussama Keddou, who delivered a commanding performance in the final. Kazakhstan’s Malikzhan Mustafa and Arnur Tapishev finished with silver in the same category.
Saudi Arabia emerged strongly in the mixed doubles, with Amer Mohammed and Nabiha Shariff claiming gold ahead of Algeria’s Oussama Keddou and Chiraz Halimi. Mohammed was one of the standout performers of the tournament. He also won the men’s singles title, overcoming Malaysia’s Lee Shawn in a competitive final to complete a double triumph.
In the women’s singles, Micah Henares Cruz of the USA produced an impressive run to lift the title, underlining the depth of talent on display throughout the week.
Beyond the podium finishes, the tournament offered junior players valuable international exposure and ranking points. It also demonstrated Uganda’s capacity to stage global competitions efficiently, with smooth organization and consistent attendance at the MTN Arena.
Attention now turns to the next edition, with several of the young athletes expected to build on their performances as they progress through the international ranks.
