Young tennis star eyes breakthrough

Don Makanyanga, Zimpapers Sports Hub

AFTER making his debut appearance for Zimbabwe at an international tournament last week, 17-year old rising tennis star is looking forward to more caps.

The Mutare- based tennis star, Ronan Tashinga Mtisi, played his first international match for Zimbabwe last week when the country hosted Morocco in a Davis Cup Group 2 World Cup play-off.

It was not to be the best of debuts for the tennis star as Zimbabwe succumbed to a four- nil defeat.
Despite the defeat for Zimbabwe’s development representative Mtisi, the Davis Cup marked the beginning of his international journey.

Mtisi featured in the doubles with Courtney Lock before playing a singles match, which he put up a brave fight to lose 4-6, 3-6.

Representing Zimbabwe was a dream come true for the Mutare based player.
“Playing in the Davis Cup was quite an opportunity for me,” said Mtisi.

He said he was nervous to play at a big stage though he had his nerves calmed by the experience of seasoned tennis player, Courtney.

“I think for the first games I was a bit nervous.
“I played doubles with Courtney, he is a great player, great doubles player. He was telling me what to do.

“I think we played well but then the guys were too good and as for the singles, I started off a bit slow. I went 5-2 down, then I tried to come back,” he said.

“I was feeling more comfortable; I was under pressure; I think I played well for the first time. There was a big crowd, I was feeling nervous but I managed to play my best tennis today.

“It didn’t go my way, but I’m proud of myself,” said Mtisi.
Growing up representing his country was a far-fetched dream as he never envisioned that one day he would represent the country.

“Growing up, I didn’t really think I would make it this far, playing in the Davis Cup for my country.
“Tennis was just a sport. I started it at school, when I was in Grade Four, that’s when I started playing tennis.

At least I know that I was keeping something that could take me this far. I really feel proud of myself that I managed to represent my country,” said an elated Mtisi

He said he is now ready for the challenge that lies ahead.
“I’m looking forward to representing Zimbabwe at some level,” he said.