Africa-Press – Botswana. Another promising junior tennis player from Botswana, Tinashe Phatshwane, has secured a one-year scholarship at the Confederation of African Tennis (CAT) Regional Training Centre in Sousse, Tunisia. At just 14 years old, Phatshwane follows in the footsteps of fellow young talent Malak Macheng, who enrolled at the same facility only a few weeks earlier. The move highlights Botswana’s growing presence in continental tennis and reflects efforts to nurture young athletes through international exposure. Phatshwane’s scholarship will allow him to access world-class training facilities, expert coaching, and a competitive environment designed to develop elite tennis players.
Botswana Tennis Association vice president Nonofo Othusitse confirmed that Phatshwane is among the beneficiaries selected for the 2026 calendar year by CAT. While in Tunisia, he will pursue online studies alongside intensive tennis training. The structured programme will also give him opportunities to compete in local and international tournaments, gaining critical match experience against top-tier opponents. Othusitse emphasised that training at a well-resourced international centre provides both the technical skills and competitive exposure necessary for young athletes to progress to higher levels.
This scholarship represents a strategic step for Botswana’s tennis development, demonstrating how international partnerships can accelerate the growth of young talent. By competing in Tunisia and beyond, Phatshwane will gain valuable insights into professional tennis standards, sportsmanship, and international competition preparation. His journey also serves as an inspiration to other young athletes in Botswana, showing that dedication, talent, and structured support can open doors to global opportunities. With consistent performance, Phatshwane is positioned to strengthen Botswana’s reputation in African tennis and potentially on the international stage.
