By Mikee Natinga Norico

A Proud Victory! CPU Golden Lions’ young tennis sensation, Anthony Bjorn G. Castigador (right), receives his gold and silver medals at the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships in Colombo, Sri Lanka, alongside the Sri Lanka tennis representative.

Central Philippine University (CPU) Golden Lions’ young tennis prodigy, Anthony Bjorn G. Castigador, showcased his skill on the international stage after securing a silver medal in the boys’ singles and a gold medal in the boys’ doubles at the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships Qualifying Event for South, Southeast, and East Asia, held from January 13-23, 2025, in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The tournament, which featured top junior players from 13 invited nations—including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Macau, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Timor-Leste—served as a qualifying event for the ITF World Tennis Tour Juniors, the junior equivalent of the ATP and WTA Finals.

(From left to right) CPU Golden Lions’ young tennis prodigy, Anthony Bjorn G. Castigador, poses with Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam, Director of CPU Office of Sports and Athletics, after securing a gold and silver medal at the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Representing the Philippine National Team, the Grade 7 student proved his prowess against top-tier competitors from across Asia. In the boys’ singles finals, Castigador put up a valiant fight against Singapore’s representative, ultimately falling 7-6, 6-2, 6-1, earning a well-deserved silver medal. However, in the boys’ doubles category, he bounced back with a stellar performance, clinching the championship title alongside his partner with a 6-3, 4-6, 10-2 victory over Singapore.

Engr. Marc Hermel Agriam, Director of CPU’s Office of Sports and Athletics, lauded Castigador’s performance, stating, “It was a remarkable achievement. The event he won is a step closer to top-level competition, which features the best talents from across the globe.”

In preparation for the prestigious tournament, Castigador underwent rigorous training, including a five-day training camp with the Philippine Tennis Association (PHILTA) before the competition. He was under the guidance of CPU Coach Alquinn Flores and National Team Coach Chris Cuarto.

(From right to left) After intense competition against Asia’s best young players, Anthony Bjorn G. Castigador and National Team Coach Chris Cuarto celebrate his remarkable achievement at the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships in Sri Lanka.

Currently ranked No. 37 in Asia, Castigador’s performance at the ITF Asia 14&U Development Championships has further cemented his status as one of the most promising young tennis players in the region. With this victory, he moves one step closer to competing at the highest levels of junior tennis.

His journey is an inspiration to young Centralian athletes, proving that dedication, hard work, and the right training can lead to international success. The CPU community and the entire country eagerly anticipate his future achievements on the global tennis stage.