Lim gains in ITF men’s circuit

MANILA, Philippines — AJ Lim scored a 6-4, 4-2 (ret.) win over veteran Daniiar Duldaev of Kyrgyzstan to open his bid in the ITF Men’s Pro Circuit at the National Tennis Center in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Lim, who trained with many-time national team player Cecil Mamiit and Orlando Silvosa in the US for months, wore down the 24-year-old Duldaev with pinpoint and clever shots to advance to the next round.

Backed by Philta president Atty. Antonio Cablitas, Philippine Airlines and the Philippine Sports Commission, the 18-year-old University of the East standout will next face Latvian Martins Podzus in the Futures tournament offering $15,000 in prizes.

“I hope others will come out to support not only AJ Lim but also other promising tennis players,” said Cablitas.

Lim, meanwhile, credited Mamiit, Silvosa and Akio Sy for his much-improved game.

“They spent extended hours in order to polish my game and I’m so grateful for them. They were so patient during my US training,” said Lim, who earlier beat three veteran players to advance to the main draw.