By: Mohamed Abu Conteh
It was enthralling, epic and unbelievable fitting words to describe Bassey Kargbo’s dramatic victory over Mohamed Kamara, popularly known as Sallah, in a gripping three-set final at the 2026 National Tennis Championship held at the Hill Station Tennis Club on Saturday, April 11.
The championship, the second under the leadership of Sierra Leone Tennis Association President Andy Bam, was organised in collaboration with Marampa Mines Limited, with support from Korlie Limited and Qcell Sierra Leone. The competition, staged across Hill Station Tennis Club, LOR Tennis Club and Juba Golf Club from March 30 to April 11, climaxed in a pulsating encounter that lasted close to four hours.
Kargbo, the country’s number one ranked player, successfully defended his title to secure back-to-back national championships. However, he was pushed to the limit by Kamara before eventually prevailing 6-1, 4-6, 6-5 in a contest many spectators described as one of the most competitive finals in recent times.
The defending champion dominated the opening set, holding serve strongly despite early pressure from Kamara, who came close to breaking but failed to convert key points. Kargbo’s resilience saw him take the first set convincingly.
Kamara responded with intent in the second set, showcasing aggressive backhand play and executing several brilliant drop shots to unsettle Kargbo and level the match.
The decisive set lived up to expectations, with both players displaying remarkable skill and determination. Kamara’s attacking style kept the crowd on edge, but Kargbo answered with powerful serves and precise forehands. With the match finely balanced, both players agreed to settle the contest via a tiebreak in the final set, where Kargbo held his nerve to seal a hard-fought 6-5 victory.
In the women’s singles final, Adama Kargbo proved dominant against Haja Dauda, winning the first set 6-1. The match was cut short in the second set after Dauda complained of severe stomach pain and was forced to retire, handing the title to Kargbo.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, SLTA President Andy Bam expressed satisfaction with the successful hosting of the championship, commending Marampa Mines Limited for its continued support towards tennis development in Sierra Leone. He also acknowledged the contributions of Korlie Limited, Qcell Sierra Leone, Barrie Help and the Ivorian Sillas Foundation’s “Say No to Drugs Campaign,” as well as coaches, officials and players.
Minister of Sports, Madam Augusta James-Taema, praised the association for its efforts and highlighted the growth of tennis in the country.
“It is important to recognise that we have many sporting disciplines excelling beyond football,” she said. “I am delighted to witness the energy and talent displayed here today. Though the matches were long, they were equally exciting.”
She further commended the sponsors, particularly Marampa Mines, for investing in tennis, describing the sport as viable and widely loved. The Minister also urged stakeholders to remain united, emphasizing that collaboration is key to sustained progress.
Winners in the other categories include the U-12 boys’ category: Muctarr Sannoh – winner, Musa Sesay – runner up. U-14 boys’ category: Daniel Kargbo – winner, Alimamy Kargbo – runner up. U-14 girls’ category: Susan Kargbo – winner, Karima Kuyateh – runner up. U-16 boys’ category: Morlai Bangura – winner, Issa Kargbo – runner up. U-18 boys’ category: Mohamed Kamara – winner, Mohamed Barrie – runner up and more.
Statements were made by representatives from Marampa Mines Limited, and Korlie Limited as the event concluded with the presentation of trophies, medals and cash prizes to winners and runners-up across all categories, bringing the curtain down on a highly successful championship.