South African Professional Tennis players are rising in the ranks of the sport. Wendy Mudiba, a former Mitchell House learner and South African tennis champion was recently proclaimed the ‘queen of clay’ after winning the South African Girls’ Singles’ title at the African Junior Championships 14UonClay courts 2026. In London Chetan Nathoo, a Lenasia Table Tennis Association (LTTA) player stresses that community is vital for promoting the sport, raising awareness of it across the country.
The African Junior Championships 14U is a continental event that attracts emerging talent from across Africa and tests athletes in high-pressure, multi-day competition. Representing South Africa at this level marks a significant milestone in Modiba’s young career and reflects her growing stature in junior tennis. She said that clay courts require patience, tactical point construction and strong footwork. “Being called the ‘queen of clay’ is a dream, but I didn’t get here alone. “Thank you to my parents for their support, my current coaches for pushing me to improve, and former Mitchell House tennis coaches for backing me all the way in school since junior years, to where I am now. I’m grateful.
“To my teammates, your support means everything. This medal belongs to all of us. I also hope this inspires other players like myself to believe they can achieve their goals.”
Athletes like Modiba are examples of professionalism due to honing their endurance, stamina and strength on and off the tennis court. Modiba is still starting out at the early stage but she could rise to higher prominence as she matures. The High-pressure, multi-day African Junior Championships 14 U is a shining example of testing the limits of athletes from across Africa. Training for the challenges takes the competitors to new heights and prepares them for the senior era in their careers. The clay courts are a prime example of creating a tough and complex environment for training the athletes concerned. Modiba is a prime example of a junior athlete who with the right support of family and friends can achieve immeasurable accomplishments.
The amount of team work and cooperation between respective team mates is also a pillar of support for aspiring players on the tennis court. Modiba certainly earned her title “Queen of Clay” and may one day represent South Africa in more prestigous international tournaments.
Chetan Nathooo too also had a significant journey in developing his career in tennis
Chetan Nathoo’s table tennis journey began at his cousin’s house, leading to a career that started in earnest during his primary school years. Today, his extensive resume includes representing South Africa at the Commonwealth Games, the African Senior Championships, and the All Africa Games. “If my memory serves me correctly, the first time I played table tennis was at my cousin’s place, after which I started playing in primary school,” said Nathoo. “I’ve always been very sporty and played numerous sports, excelling in most of them, including soccer, cricket, swimming, and table tennis. Over time, table tennis became the sport I focused on the most.”
Nathoo’s path serves as an inspiration for others to follow. He developed his talent through training to compete in international tournaments. He has attracted support on the global sporting stage to continue his passion and career and may prove a force to be reckoned with at even the Olympics. Both Modiba and Nathoo can rise to progress to world level to be on a trajectory to glory. Talent is on the rise in all aspects, focusing on Tennis for the two athletes concerned was the best decision they could make. Professional sports such as tennis and table tennis can be a path to success and inspiration to others.
It depends on how this talent is harnessed.
Article written by:
Yacoob Cassim
Journalist at Radio Al Ansaar
