Rwanda’s number one Dieudonne Habiyambere has vowed to win his first ever Uganda Tennis Open which starts on Monday and runs until November 7 at the Lugogo tennis courts in Kampala. Dieudonne Habiyambere. Habiyambere’s best finish at the annual tournament was reaching the final in 2013 when he lost to compatriot Jean Claude Gasigwa (deceased) at the Kampala club. He also reached the semi-finals in 2011 and quarter-finals in 2012. Speaking to Times Sport before departing for Kampala on Saturday evening, Habiyambere said he is optimistic and confident about his chances of breaking the Uganda Open duck. “My only target is the title and I am positive I can make it because I’m very familiar with the tournament having been there several times,” said Habiyambere. The 31-year-old will lead the team that also includes; Olivier Havugimana, Olivier Nkunda, Matayo Uwizeyimana, Etienne Uwizeyimana as well as Rwanda’s women number one, Megane Ingabire. Habiyambere also noted that, “The good thing is that we’re going as a team, and I hope we can do so well in both categories (men and women), we have a good record in Uganda.” The five-day tournament has attracted a total of over 80 players from six countries including Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, DR Congo, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and hosts Uganda, according to organizers, the Uganda Tennis Association. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
