Rising star launches bid in Belgium netfest

MANILA, Philippines – Albert “AJ” Lim, the country’s rising tennis star, begins his quest for a first major title this year when he sees action in the Belgian International Junior Championships starting today in Marcinelle, Belgium.

The clay court event held annually at the Royal Astrid Tennis Club will be Lim’s final stop before the big one – the French Open.

Like the 16-year-old Lim, other big names in juniors competition will also vie for the title as they intend to sharpen their weapons in time for the French Open which starts on May 29 in Paris.

Lim was recently lauded by chief benefactor Philippine Airlines (PAL) president Jaime Bautista for his impressive runner-up finish in Pune, India last week where he scored upset wins over a couple of fancied players.

Serving as Lim’s coach in the event is brother Eng. Numero Lim – a former Manila councilor who is hoping the coming Duterte (Rody) administration will help put the sport back to its glory days.

“President-elect Duterte is surrounded by sportsmen so I believe he has also the passion for the sports, especially tennis,” said the older Lim. “I hope to see more tennis courts in the next six years.”

The youngest winner of the country’s premier tennis tournament – the Philippine Columbian Association (PCA) Open last year – Lim said he will use his runner-up finish as his biggest motivation next for his country and family.