Dutchman Max Houkes claimed his second M25 title in Kigali after defeating India’s Dev Javia in a gripping three-set final, winning 6-2, 6(4)-7, 7-5 at the RP Kigali/Kicukiro Ecology Tennis Court on Sunday, October 11. Having fallen short in the semifinals during the tournament’s opening week, Houkes returned stronger in the second week to secure the title. The two-hour-and-43-minute encounter, attended by the Ministry of Sports Permanent Secretary, Dr Brave Olivier Ngabo, and other guests of honour, showcased the resilience and determination of both players. The match was briefly interrupted by rain but resumed with both finalists maintaining their competitive intensity. Houkes made a commanding start, dominating the opening set 6-2 to put Javia under immediate pressure. The Dutchman looked poised to maintain his momentum as he sought to take control of the final. However, the eighth-seeded Indian mounted a spirited comeback in the second set, raising his level to challenge Houkes and force a tie-break. Javia held his nerve in the crucial moments, winning the tie-break 7-4 to level the match at one set apiece. With the title on the line, both players approached the deciding set, knowing that any mistake could prove decisive. The intensity remained high as they battled for every point, with neither willing to concede an advantage. Houkes ultimately prevailed 7-5 in the final set, sealing a hard-fought victory and capping his second week in Kigali with the M25 title.
