KUCHING, Feb 5: Twelve-year-old Ryoga Kho, from SJKC Stampin Kuching, emerged victorious at the recently concluded TennisMalaysia Junior Tour 2024 Leg 1, which took place in Ipoh, Perak from Jan 31 to Feb 4, 2024, demonstrating not only his on-court prowess but also a testament to relentless hard work.
According to a press release, Kho emerged victorious in the singles final against Penang player Ong Theng Kuan with a scoreline of 6-0, 6-1.
Meanwhile, in the doubles category, Kho, alongside partner Oezil Najib from Kuala Lumpur, clinched victory against Azizul Ashman from Negeri Sembilan and Eli Eita Hilton from Sarawak with a tight score of 4-1, 5-4 (7-3).
The press release revealed Kho almost had to forfeit his doubles match due to concerns over catching a flight on time.
“While the triumph is a point of pride for Sarawak, Kho’s journey is not without its challenges. The absence of sufficient support and sponsorship in Sarawak’s tennis scene, especially as he contemplates participation in six more junior legs across Peninsular Malaysia this year, places a significant financial strain. The costs, particularly for air travel from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur, present a formidable obstacle.
“In the midst of these challenges, Kho’s success is inseparable from the sacrifices made by his devoted family, including his mother, and coaches. The pivotal role played by his personal coach and his father—a former state and national junior player, now an accomplished tennis coach—has been instrumental in guiding Kho on the path to success. Kho’s accomplishment is a testament to the unwavering commitment of his support system,” read the press release.
Fazwil Abdul Wahid, president of Perak Lawn Tennis Association, extended his congratulations to Kho for his win. — DayakDaily
