Abdelkader claims breakthrough ITF W35 crown in Nairobi

Hajar Abdelkader announced herself on the international stage by capturing the ITF W35 Nairobi title after a gritty final in the Kenyan capital, sealing the biggest victory of her young career. The Moroccan teenager triumphed this week at the Nairobi Club, navigating a demanding draw to lift the trophy and boost her world ranking.

Abdelkader showed maturity beyond her years in the final, staying composed during momentum swings to close out the match in straight sets. “I had to fight for every point and trust my game,” she said after the win, describing the conditions as “challenging but exciting.”

Her beaten finalist acknowledged the difference on the day, saying, “She was more aggressive at the crucial moments and earned it.” Coaches at the event praised Abdelkader’s mentality, noting that “her ability to stay calm under pressure stood out.”

The Nairobi success caps a strong run for Abdelkader and reinforces Kenya’s status as an important stop on the ITF Women’s World Tennis Tour.