Comebacking Lim beats Arcilla for Balangay Open crown

MANILA, Philippines — Former World Juniors No. 12 AJ Lim’s comeback is nearing completion.

The 24-year-old Lim continued his ascent back to glory as he claimed his fourth title in a year via his recent 2024 Balangay Open title conquest in Butuan City where he bested battle-scarred Johnny Arcilla, 6-1, 6-2, in the finale.

The player, who once stunned former World No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece in a doubles event in the Orange Bowl years ago, pocketed the top prize worth P200,000.

Lim’s backer, Cebuana Lhuillier’s Jean Henri Lhuillier, heaped nothing but praises to his ward.

“AJ’s performance is a testament to his hard work and dedication. We are proud to support such a talented athlete,” said Lhuillier.

Lim, the youngest to win the Philippine Columbian Association Open title at age 16 nine years ago, is scheduled to see action in five International Tennis Federation events starting one in China slated June 13 to 18.

Lim’s path to the final included victories over Eric Olivarez Jr., 6-4, 6-3, in the semifinals, Dave Sebastian Mosqueda, 6-1, 6-2, in the quarterfinals and Rain Ninal, 6-0, 6-0, in the opening round.