The South African flag will fly proudly over Melbourne Park when the Junior Australian Open takes place down under in two weeks’ time.

Three South African boys will participate in the first junior Grand Slam of the year making the representation the largest boys group in recent years.

The South African challenge will be spear headed by South Africa’s and Africa’s highest world ranked junior, Joshua Howard-Tripp of Gauteng East. Joining Howard-Tripp are Sipho Montsi of Gauteng North and Philip Henning of Free State.

Howard-Tripp is ranked 83 on the world junior boys singles rankings with Montsi ranked 108 and Henning at 187.

All three boys have represented South Africa in team competition on the international stage. Howard-Tripp was part of South Africa’s junior Davis Cup team in 2015.

All three boys will travel to Tunisia after Australia to represent South Africa in the under 18 African Championships there and no doubt will battle hard to be crowned African Champion.

Richard Glover, Tennis South Africa (TSA) CEO said that he wished the South African boys all the best in Melbourne.

“As part of our new vision, TSA are planning to reintroduce a squad system that will give support to our rising stars in junior Grand Slam events. TSA are happy to be able to give some assistance to the three boys in Melbourne as a kick start of this programme and are confident they do will themselves and country proud,” said Glover.