CHEERS erupted from the sidelines as enthusiastic members of the Amanzimtoti Tennis Club witnessed an energetic and highly-competitive match on September 20, as the final two athletes contested for victory.

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A total of 30 singles matches were played after weeks of the men’s singles round robin tournament, all leading up to the final, where two talented tennis players, Hendrik Bester and Amanzimtoti Tennis Club coach, Mike Ngoma, played a final worthy of broadcast.

The stakes were sky-high from the get-go, with the players competing for the grand prize of a Roger Federer shirt, which was donated by Michelle Booysen.

Starting off the best-of-three match at a frantic pace, left-handed player Bester delivered booming serves that put Ngoma on the defensive.

Gary Killian, treasurer of the club, said, “With some amazing rallies, Hendrik kept Mike at bay, hitting several winners down the lines, just out of reach of the chasing efforts of Mike, who fought back with some deft lobs that had Hendrik racing after balls. With his incredible foot speed, however, Hendrik managed to return most, only for Mike to powerfully strike the ball with his signature smashes.”

Despite having to return several wide strikes, Hendrik was not missing many balls, making for long, tactical rallies. Hendrik took the first set 6-1, despite Mike’s best efforts.

The crowd’s collective attention teetered back and forth as the athletes whizzed the ball over the net. The second set saw Ngoma push Bester to deuce on several of the games.

“Hendrik’s form was on another level and he won the critical breaker points to cement his dominance, he finished the match off with another 6-0 set,” said Killian.

Exhausted, but ecstatic, Bester thanked the club and spectators for their support, and congratulated Ngoma for a tough match.

“This was the first time that he had played in such a competitive environment with so many spectators, which included his two daughters. This made for a very successful tournament, and our club members are eager to have more of these events in the future,” concluded Gary.

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