Chronicle EditorNgqwele Dube, Sports Correspondent
ZIMBABWE junior squash coach Mike Lawton has praised young prospect Ryan Gwidzima’s performance at the US Open where he lifted the second consolation plate.
He said the showing proved Gwidzima can rise to the top echelons of the game with the right support and grooming and believes he deserves a higher ranking than the overall number 17 that he got.
“Winning the second consolation shows that he was the best loser in the main draw and could have lost to a top seed. Unfortunately if you are from Africa, apart from Egypt, you rarely get the protection of a seed, something I feel would have ensured he reaches the top 10. I don’t think 17 is his true position,” said Lawton.
Lawton said he took a team of nine players two years ago and they were astounded by the level of squash being played, something that makes Gwidzima’s victory all the more impressive.
He said competition was tough and six of the players struggled, while three played better although they did not do so well.
“The standard was just frightening, which makes Ryan’s victory more profound. The US Open is the second toughest competition in the world behind the British Open. Ryan will have to improve on his technique going forward and I think he can produce wonders ahead.”
Gwidzima clinched the US Junior Open second consolation plate after exiting the main draw in the round of 32.
Gwidzima beat Owen Yu, who was ranked eighth, in the final of the second consolation plate.
The championship, which attracts top junior squash players from around the world, was held at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, from December 16-19.
Gwidzima’s father and coach Langton said he was excited by his son’s performances.
“Ryan raised the country’s flag high with his exploits and many began enquiring about his background and country of origin. I was thrilled that he only lost one match; his performance went beyond our expectations and we will be making plans to ensure he attends other top squash tournaments,” said Langton. — @rasmthembo
Online Reporter