MANILA, Philippines: The Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP) sent a group of promising young players to compete in the 38th Penang Open International Juniors Tennis Championships held from November 29 to December 3, 2023. These talented athletes showcased their skills and brought home multiple gold medals, proving their excellence on the international stage.
In the singles events, the UTP players dominated their respective age categories. Kenzo Brodeth emerged as the champion in the boys 14-under division, while Kendrick Bona claimed victory in the boys 16-under category. Mateo Rivas showcased his talent and emerged as the champion in the boys 18-under division. On the girls’ side, Jana Jelena Diaz triumphed in the girls 14-under category, Maria Hannah Divinagracia emerged victorious in the girls 16-under division, and Kaye Ann Emana secured the gold in the girls 18-under division.
While some players came close to the top spot, they still showcased their skills and determination. Ma. Caroliean Fiel and Jayden Reece Ballado finished as runners-up in the girls 10-under and girls 14-under divisions, respectively. Kimi Brodeth and Mica Ella Emana also displayed their talent and secured second place in the girls 16-under and girls 18-under categories, respectively.
The UTP team’s success extended beyond the singles events. They also dominated the doubles championships, winning five titles. Lexious Cruz and Kenzo Brodeth formed a formidable partnership and emerged as the champions in the boys 14-under doubles. Kendrick Bona and Mcleen Gomera showcased their skills and secured victory in the boys 16-under doubles. Maristella Torrecampo and Ong Zi Zuan displayed great teamwork and claimed the title in the girls 12-under doubles. Jayden Reece Ballado and Jana Jelena Diaz formed a strong partnership and emerged as champions in the girls 14-under doubles. Lastly, Maria Hannah Divinagracia and Kimi Brodeth showcased their skills and secured victory in the girls 16-under doubles.
The outstanding performances of the young Filipino netters in Penang, Malaysia, filled UTP and Cebuana Lhuillier president Jean Henri Lhuillier with extreme pride and inspiration. In a heartfelt message, he commended their dedication and highlighted the numerous victories that brought glory not only to the athletes but also to the Filipino people.
“Like all roads, our athletes faced numerous bumps and hitches along the way. However, it was with their sheer effort, skill, and will that they were able to overcome these adversities and raise the Philippine flag on the international stage,” Lhuillier said.
He also expressed his excitement for the future, as the young stars continue to develop and showcase their talent. Lhuillier acknowledged the Filipino talent that the UTP aims to cultivate and congratulated all the athletes on their exceptional performances.
The UTP team consists of 16 players who emerged as the top two finishers in their respective age-group categories during the UTP Elite Eight National Championships held in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental earlier this year. These young athletes have shown immense potential and determination, and their success in the Penang Open International Juniors Tennis Championships is a testament to their hard work and the support they receive from the UTP and Cebuana Lhuillier.
As these talented players continue to hone their skills and gain valuable experience on the international stage, the future of Philippine tennis looks bright. Their achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring young athletes across the country, and their dedication to the sport is a shining example of the Filipino spirit.
Source: The Manila Times
