Morris, Diamante share MVP honors

MANILA, Philippines — Matthew Morris and Danica Diamante showcased exceptional form at the Lapu-Lapu City National Junior Championships, clinching two titles each and earning MVP honors in Cebu last Sunday.

Ranked fourth, Morris stunned second seed Gil Niere, 6-2, 6-0, in the 14 -under semifinals before overpowering Claudwin Toñacao, 6-2, 6-2, to claim the boys’ crown. The Dumaguete City native then dominated the 16-under category, dropping just four games across four matches capped with a 6-3, 6-0 victory against Anthony Espinosa.

Meanwhile, Tuburan’s Diamante defeated two top seeds en route to her dual titles in the girls’ category. She triumphed over Amanda Barrido, 6-4, 6-2, in the 12-under finals, and later outplayed Molly Tan, 6-2, 6-4, to win the 14-under championship.

Homegrown talent Chad Cuizon thrilled local fans, pulling off a stunning upset against top seed RB John Lataza, 6-4, 6-2, to win the boys’ 18-and-U crown in the five-day, Group 2 tournament hosted by Rep. Cindi Chan and Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan in their continuing effort to develop tennis in the region.