Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda, [email protected]
NATIONAL Pickleball champion Theophelus Msokeri delivered an impressive performance at the recently held Gauteng Pickleball Open in South Africa, finishing second and underlining his growing stature in the sport.
The rising star navigated a competitive field dominated by South African players to reach the men’s singles final, where he settled for the silver medal after losing 6-11, 4-11 to Ghana’s Ali Yahayo.
Msokeri’s run to the final was characterised by composed and confident performances, further highlighting his rapid progress since transitioning from tennis to pickleball.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub from his base in South Africa, Msokeri said the result was a direct reflection of the work he has invested in improving his game.
“My performance at the Gauteng Open was a reflection of the hard work and preparation I’ve been putting in,” said Msokeri.
“I’m proud of how I competed, especially staying focused under pressure. The experience was great. It challenged me and showed me where I’m improving and where I still need to grow. Winning here means a lot, but it also motivates me to keep pushing to a higher level.”
Msokeri said his journey into pickleball has been both rewarding and demanding.
A former tennis player with ambitions of turning professional, he has approached the switch to pickleball with determination and a clear sense of purpose.
“My journey has been exciting and challenging at the same time. I started as a tennis player with dreams of going professional and transitioning into pickleball, a different sport but the same dream. It’s a new path for me. Since then, I’ve been working hard to grow in the sport, learning every day and gaining experience through competition.”
Despite already securing national honours, Msokeri said he remains driven by bigger long term ambitions.
“Becoming a champion is a proud moment for me, but I see it as part of the journey, not the final destination. It pushes me to stay disciplined, stay hungry, and aim for bigger goals like competing internationally, especially in America where the sport is popular,” he said.
Msokeri is now focusing on the South Africa Open, scheduled for early May.
“I’m preparing for the South Africa Open, and I’m going there with confidence and determination to fight for gold,” he said.
His coach, Witness Jiyane, who also competed as a player at the same tournament, expressed pride in Msokeri’s rapid rise, noting that the athlete only took up pickleball in 2026 but has already made a notable impact.
“As his coach from tennis and pickleball, I am very proud of his performance. He started playing pickleball last year and won both provincial and national tournaments. His future is brighter in pickleball.”
At the Gauteng Open, Jiyane partnered Msokeri in the doubles event, where the pair finished runners up after losing in the final. In the singles category, Jiyane was eliminated after the group stages in the 35-50 years age group division.
