MANILA, Philippines - Albert “AJ” Lim Jr. downed Indonesian top seed Armando Soemarno, 6-0, 3-6, 7-6 (10-5), to capture the 16-years-and-under crown in the 2012 Thamrin International Junior Tennis Championships in Indonesia over the weekend.
The 13-year-old Lim started hot with his great shot selection, wavered in the second set then held his ground in the super tiebreaker to produce his biggest win for the year so far.
“With the way he’s playing and hitting the ball, the Indonesians could not believe AJ is just 13 years old,” said coach Manny Tecson. “He has matured because he was patient in the rallies. He’s already hitting beyond his age.”
Lim also toppled the host’s No. 2 seed Irfani Handrawan, 6-0, 6-1, in the semis.
An incoming sophomore at Letran, Lim was a finalist in the tough 12-and-under division of the Orange Bowl last year.
Rep. Romy Jalosjos, Lim’s major backer, was elated with protégé’s victory, saying Lim is indeed one of the country’s top prospects in the sport.
“His mental attitude and physical strength are constantly developing,” added Tecson.
Up next for Lim is the ITF 18-under tournament in Bandung where he will be ranged against the region’s best.