Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda [email protected]
NATIONAL pickleball champion Theophelus Msokeri produced a strong showing at the recently held Gauteng Pickleball Open in South Africa, finishing as second, in a performance that highlights his growing stature in the sport.
The rising star battled through a competitive field dominated by South African players to reach the men’s singles final, where he eventually settled for silver after losing 6-11, 4-11 to Ali Yahayo of Ghana.
His path to the final was marked by composed and confident displays, underlining his rapid rise since switching from tennis to pickleball.
Speaking to Zimpapers Sports Hub from his base in SA, Msokeri said the result reflected the effort he has been putting into 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’s journey into pickleball has been both exciting and demanding.
A former tennis player with aspirations of turning professional, he has embraced the new sport with determination and 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 claiming national honours, the young athlete remains focused on bigger 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 added.
Msokeri is now turning his attention to the South Africa Open at the beginning of 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 entered the court as player at same tournament, expressed pride in Msokeri’s rapid progress, noting that the player only took up pickleball in 2026, but has already made a significant 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 and they lost in the final. In singles Jiyane lost in the elimination stage, after the group stages of the 35 to 50 years’ age group category.
