Saint Lucia finished second in Group C and ninth overall out of 17 teams at the World Junior Tennis Girls’ North/Central America & The Caribbean Pre-Qualifying Tournament, which ended on Sunday in San Salvador, El Salvador. Team Saint Lucia comprised Kahenya Mukora, Samuella Bertrand and Merkisha Justin.
On the opening day, Wednesday, the trio went down to Costa Rica, losing 3-0. But they bounced back on Friday with a 2-1 victory over Jamaica. Justin beat Leah Dibbs 6-1, 6-0 to set the tone but Azariah Daniels evened the tie by overcoming Mukora 4-6, 4-6. The doubles team of Mukora and Justin got past Dibbs and Daniels, 6-2, 7-6(7).
“Merkisha produced a dominant display to win convincingly in straight sets. Her confident and composed performance set the tone early for Saint Lucia,” said team captain, Scyla Murray. “This victory highlights the team’s unity, determination and fighting spirit. We extend heartfelt congratulations to the girls for their exceptional performance and for proudly representing Saint Lucia on the international stage.”
In the 6th to 10th Playoff, Saint Lucia fell to Panama 2-0 on Saturday. Justin topped Bermuda’s Arianna Parra in the 8th/9th Playoff, winning 2-4, 4-2, 10-2. Mukora was undone by Chloe McBrearty, 1-4, 0-4. Bertrand and Mukora put in a great effort in doubles but ultimately fell 4-2, 0-4, 5-10.
Murray said the competition was very challenging, but expressed pride in the team’s performance. She emphasised that the players competed well and continue to gain valuable experience.
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