ALBERT `AJ’ Lim, Jr. claimed his second US title in three days by downing NCAA Division I veteran Alexander Pelaez, 6-1, 6-2, to capture the Plantation Open Circuit III crown in Florida.
Inspired by his victory in the Andy Lake Pearl tournament at Haws Landing also in Florida over the weekend, Lim, 15, again displayed his dominant form that he dropped only one set in ruling the tournament that was sanctioned by the US Tennis Association.
“Mas mabigat ang mga kalaban ko ngayon compared sa last tournament na sinalihan ko,” said Lim, who finished runner-up to Davis Cup veteran PJ Tierro in the recent Philippine National Games.
Lim showed great resolve in the second day of the tournament as he had to play thrice due to late matches on opening day, but went on to hurdle all three opponents.
Notable among his victims that day was fourth seeded and 6-foot-2 Gaston Murray whom he beat, 6-2, 6-0, to advance to the semis.
In the semis, he recovered brilliantly from an opening set defeat to bring top seed Juan Rocha down to his knees, 2-6, 6-3,10-4.
Rocha was not only seeded No. 1 in the tournament but is also currently ranked No. 2 in Florida men’s rankings.
Lim’s latest success impressed the coaching staff of the L’Academie de Tennis that they are now preparing the country’s top junior player for four more major tournaments, including the Junior US Open.
He is also lined up to see action in the Canadian World Junior and International Hardcourts Junior Championships before coming back to the country to play in the PCA Open.
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