Despite a first round defeat, South Africans have much to be proud of as Connor Doig added to South Africa’s presence at Wimbledon 2025.
Doig’s entry into the big stage has only just begun.
This was not only his maiden Wimbledon, but also his first time playing on UK grass, which he said was unfamiliar but enjoyable, and “a privilege”.
Saved a match point
The junior world No 60 qualified for the Boys’ Singles draw at Wimbledon – a feat in itself, given the challenges he overcame.
His first qualifying match involved saving a match point, and winning a close super tie-breaker (12-10).
His second match was equally tight, before he progressed and secured a place in the Boys’ Singles draw.
Doig was defeated in two sets (7-5, 6-2) by Luis Guto Miguel of Brazil in the first round of the Wimbledon Boys’ Singles tournament.
But there are many positive takeaways from this experience to build on, even from the distractions he faced.
The beginning of the first set was going the South African’s way until two interruptions after his 4-2 lead changed the momentum for the rest of the match.
At 4-2, Miguel received a medical time-out to receive physio treatment.
Then, at the start of the second set, a rain delay suspended play, just before Doig was due to serve.
‘Felt a bit disruptive’
At his post-match press conference, Doig told Amisha Savani: “I had a chance game point to go 5-2, and then, he already took the set 7-5, and then he went for a physical time off court, and then we came on for one game and went off, so it felt a bit disruptive for sure, but I mean, I think it’s the same for both of us”.
The first set was the most competitive, with tight margins, and both players upping their level, at points even serving underarm serves to switch things up.
The physio treatment and rain delay seemed to fuel Doig’s opponent, who returned playing more dominantly than ever and marching through to victory.
Savani asked Doig how it felt to be South Africa’s new hope.
“There’s a certain degree of pressure that comes with it, but I’m proud to be representing South Africa on the biggest stage”.
When asked about his thoughts on developing more South African tennis players for the main stage, Doig said that funding was still required to develop the best players, but was positive for the future.
“I think there are steps being taken in the right direction.”
Doig reflected on his maiden Wimbledon experience.
“It has been amazing, it’s been a privilege to play here”.
Looking ahead, Doig said that this experience would help him next year, by when he would be more familiar with grass.
Next up for Doig are some home tournaments in South Africa, followed by Spain before the US hard court season.
Amisha Savani reported exclusively from the All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon for The South African.
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