World-class tennis at Stellenbosch - Curro Schools

World-class tennis at Stellenbosch. Curro Holdings who is partnering with Tennis South Africa (TSA) brings two International Tennis Federation (ITF) men’s and women’s tournaments to the Van der Stel courts in Stellenbosch. This World-class tennis at Stellenbosch continue the successful Curro Centre Court Series held in June and July at Curro Hillcrest.

Happening from 1 to 15 December, these are Men15 (M15) and Women15 (W15) events. The first tournament running from 1 to 8 December and the second from 8 to 15 December. Each category boasts prize money of $15 000 per week, an overall pool of $60 000.

These tournaments form part of the men’s and women’s ITF tour. The series also allows some of the world’s best up and coming players to improve their rankings. They may earn points for their performances. If the series in Hillcrest is anything to go by, courtside at Stellenbosch should be packed by spectators. They are looking forward to enjoy top quality, live tennis.

“There is a healthy number of South African men and women playing in these tournaments. Many players are based overseas. They relish the opportunity to return home and compete against world competition,” says Cindy van der Merwe. Cindy is the Portfolio Manager at Curro Sport. “And these tournaments once again highlight Curro’s dedication and commitment in providing the platform and opportunity for quality tennis to be played and enjoyed right here in South Africa,” she adds.

South African Davis Cup team players

Indeed, the South African contingent is strong, led by South African Davis Cup team players. Included are Alec Beckley, Leo Matthysen and Phillip Henning, winner of week one of the series in Hillcrest. Adding some spice to the men’s draw is Leo Borg. Leo is the son of Swedish tennis legend and five-time Wimbledon winner, Bjorn Borg. Top ranked local junior player, teenager Bjorn Borg from Westville is sitting at 112 in the world. He is a winner of the ITF junior event also at Curro Hillcrest in September. He also will want to impress.

Kris van Wyk, South Africa’s top ranked player and a losing finalist in week three at Curro Centre Court Series in Hillcrest, will want to improve on that performance and take home the winner’s cheque as one of the evergreens on the ITF circuit.

Jahnie van Zyl

In the women’s draw, South Africa’s hope will be pinned on Isabella Kruger and teenager Jahnie van Zyl, a top junior player. Kruger, daughter of the late Springbok rugby legend Ruben, had an up and down performance at Curro Hillcrest, winning the second week’s women’s title but falling early in the other two weeks.

Van Zyl, a gritty player who fights to the bitter end, was a crowd favourite in Hillcrest and could never quite reach a final, despite progressing deep into the draw, including a win over Kruger in week one. Van Zyl is definitely a youngster to watch as she has performed admirably at numerous international tournaments and was selected for the prestigious Grand Slam Player Development Programme in 2023.

”This is a rare opportunity for people to experience international tennis in South Africa,” said van der Merwe. “The standard is exceptionally high and for those who take the time to come and soak up the action will be richly rewarded.”