Several young tennis players from Botswana have booked their places in the quarterfinals of the ITF/CAT 14 and Under Circuit after strong performances in the first round of the tournament, currently underway at the National Tennis Centre in Gaborone.
The international event, which brings together rising stars from across the continent, saw impressive wins from Botswana’s boys and girls as they took to the courts today with determination and skill.
In the boys’ singles, Lebone Tlape delivered a commanding performance, defeating his fellow countryman Motheo Kgosimore 6-1, 6-0 to earn a spot in the next round. Thinashe Phatswane also impressed, cruising past Francesco Brink 6-3, 6-1. While Botswana celebrated these victories, Reagile Pence fell to Namibia’s Theron Johan in a 6-1, 6-0 loss.
The boys’ field also saw tough competition from Zimbabwe, with Mhlanga Munenyesha overpowering Tuelo Merafhe 6-0, 6-0 and Mapepeta Ryani dispatching Duke Rantshabo 6-0, 6-1. Tema Malumo and Moshe Lekaukau both exited the tournament after straight-set losses to Zimbabwe’s Danda Simbarashe and Mhlanga Munenyesha, respectively.
In the girls’ singles, Malak Macheng showed flawless form as she dominated Zimbabwe’s Mpofu Sheen 6-0, 6-0. Another standout, Camilla Seetso, posted a strong 6-3, 6-1 victory over compatriot Aone Mokgosana, while Angel Chakanyuka sailed through with a 6-1, 6-0 win over Zimbabwe’s Tverdon Una.
However, not all local players made it through. Rerotlhe Kgannyeng fell 6-1, 6-0 to Wenzile Tshili of Zimbabwe, Mathiba Atlang suffered a 6-0, 6-0 defeat to Ashley Mandu, and Reene Sebego went down 6-1, 6-0 to Claire Majeye, also of Zimbabwe.
With several local talents advancing to the quarterfinals, Botswana’s presence in the tournament remains strong, and anticipation is high for the next round of matches. The tournament not only highlights emerging talent but also underscores Botswana’s growing stature in African junior tennis development.
