13-07-2025
Wendy Modiba: From imaginary matches to international titles
POLOKWANE – Mitchell House Gr 6 learner Wendy Modiba discovered her love for tennis long before she held a real racket in her hands.
Modiba, alongside Mpho Bowers recently represented South Africa in Botswana and Tanzania at the International Tennis Federation (ITF), Confederation of African Tennis (CAT) Circuit and won.
In their second meet, Modiba proved that she's a force to reckon with after defeating Malak Macheng from Botswana 6/1, 6/0 in the girls finals.
The two played for the first time in the first leg of the tournament. Bowers defeated Chamakh Zhuwakini from Zimbabwe 6/3, 6/1. 'I'm extremely excited that both Mpho and I were able to represent SA and place it on the map as I've always imagined and wished,' she says.
As a preschooler, she would play imaginary matches at home using invisible rackets, until her parents finally bought her proper equipment
when she entered primary school.
Since then, Wendy has developed a great passion for the sport, saying that tennis offers her both physical and mental rewards.
'It's fun and challenging, and I enjoy every part of it whether I'm playing singles, doubles, or just practicing alone,' she says.
Her dedication and natural talent have earned her several impressive achievements.
Last year, she won the Limpopo edition of the Tennis South Africa (TSA) Baobab Mini Tournament in her age division.
She also claimed the title at the ProKennex Mini Tournament in the girls u/12 division in 2022 and the u/10 Gauteng central leg of the Growthpoint Super 8 Tournament held at Ellis Park in 2021.
'I feel so happy to have won yet another trophy, but mostly I'm grateful for the coaches who have supported me along the way.'
Mitchell House tennis coach Iggy Matsiela describes Wendy as a passionate and eager learner.
'She's always looking to improve her skills. Tennis promotes fitness and mental sharpness, but it also builds friendships and character and Wendy embodies all of that,' he says.
In addition to her tennis accolades, Wendy is also an accomplished swimmer, having won several medals while representing both her school and the province.
With her eyes firmly set on turning professional, she continues to train hard and dream big.
'Tennis is my passion, and I want to play it professionally, even after I finish school.'
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