Botswana’s talent and hospitality were on display when the nation’s players performed exceptionally well at the National Tennis Centre in Gaborone recently, reaching the semifinals in the singles category and clinching victory in doubles
GAZETTE REPORTER
Botswana Tennis Association (BTA) recently celebrated a momentous achievement when it hosted the prestigious J60 and J100 tournaments at the National Tennis Centre in Gaborone.
The event not only drew strong competition but also showcased Botswana’s hospitality and passion for the sport, leaving an indelible mark on both the local and international participants.
Botswana’s players performed exceptionally well, reaching the semifinals in the singles category and clinching victory in doubles.
Home-ground advantage
For BTA, this was a testament to home advantage and the commitment of local players to defend their ground. “Having our players reach the singles semis and win the doubles on home soil is a great achievement,” said BTA spokesperson Tshepang Tlhankane.
“You cannot be the host and let your visitors leave with everything. This shows that our players understand the assignment and value the principle of home-ground advantage.”
The tournament also received enthusiastic feedback from participants and their families. Athletes, parents and coaches departed Botswana with fond memories, praising the warm welcome they received from the local tennis community.
Friendly staff
Tlhankane noted the positive feedback from guests, stating: “The general message from players, parents and coaches was that they really enjoyed being in Botswana. They appreciated the hospitality and the great tournament experience, from the friendly staff to everyone involved in the tennis community.”
The two-week event saw an impressive turnout of players and attracted a sizable crowd of spectators, particularly on Botswana’s election day, 30 October, when local enthusiasm for the tournament peaked.
Hosting the J60 and J100 events elevated the stakes as players vied for valuable international ranking points. This appeal guaranteed strong attendance from top junior players. Tlhankane noted the potential for growth in tennis viewership within Botswana.
Election day turnout
“Spectator turnout was very good on election day and afterwards, though there’s still a long way to go to bring in more spectators and sponsors to the sport,” he said.
Reflecting on the logistical aspects of the tournament, Tlhankane expressed pride that BTA faced no major challenges, highlighting the smooth organisation and coordination by the staff and volunteers. The success of the event has inspired optimism about the future of tennis in Botswana.
As the tennis calendar progresses, BTA is set to continue its momentum, taking a brief break before hosting the upcoming CAT 14&U Circuit from 17 to 23 November at the National Tennis Centre.
This will be followed by a final local tournament later in the year. Tlhankane expressed confidence in the association’s plans for the rest of the season. “We’re on a two-week break, and then we will dive into the 14&U Circuit,” he said.