Her love of tennis started when she played tennis with her father in their backyard at the age of three.
Now, Murunwa Nemavhidi, a junior player from Mpumalanga, is among the four junior players who were selected for the SA team that will tour England from June 26 to July 4.

She excelled at the national interpro tournaments held in Bloemfontein and Pretoria in January. For her to be able to participate in these tournaments, Murunwa won the provincial interdistricts tennis tournament in Mbombela last year, and she led a team to the national interpro tournament.

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Her performance during this earned her a spot on the South African school tennis team, along with seven other talented players from various provinces.

Murunwa told the newspaper making it to the SA team means the world to her, as it validates her hard work, dedication and passion for tennis.

“Being selected to represent my country is an honour and a dream come true.” She said this opens doors for new opportunities in her career. International exposure, and representing South Africa in international tournaments will help her gain valuable experience.

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This 12-year-old’s dreams and ambitions include becoming a professional tennis player and competing in grand slam tournaments. She is currently in Grade Seven and loves school; she can be found doing her schoolwork if she’s not on the tennis courts.

Her father, Khumbudzo, said they are grateful for the opportunities she’s receiving and relieved that her hard work and dedication are paying off.

“We recall the countless hours she spent practising, the early-morning training sessions and the sacrifices she made to pursue her passion. We will continue to support her dreams, providing encouragement, guidance and love every step of the way,” he said.

Some highlights from 2024 include:
• TSA Singles Tournament Champion: Mpumalanga Highveld and Gauteng East Mini 1
• TSA Amex Super 8 Doubles titleholder: KZN and Winelands in Cape Town
• Finalist: Mpumalanga Grand Prix
• Semi-finalist: TSA Amex Super 8 Singles at Winelands in Cape Town
• Wilson SA Sponsorship: Received sponsorship for tennis equipment and apparel
• 2023-24 TSA Player of the Year Award from the Lowveld Junior Tennis Association.