After breaking through the quarterfinal wall, I reached my first ITF final in Bulawayo. What I learned, what I felt — and why this is just the beginning. On

May 24th, 2025

This week in Bulawayo, I reached my first ITF final. This means everything to me.

My First ITF Final

It wasn't luck. I had to fight for it.

I stayed calm in the semis.
I trusted my shots.
I believed in myself when it got close.

All the training, all the tight matches, all the moments I had to learn the hard way - it finally connected.

What I've Learned

Growth isn't always obvious. Sometimes you feel like you're doing everything right, but the results take time.

I've worked hard on my serve.
I'm learning to build points instead of rushing them.
I've learned how to breathe, reset, and stay present.

The more I trust the process, the more it shows.

Match Reflection

In the final, I rushed a few points. The wind was tricky, and I could've used more spin instead of going for big shots too early.

Coach reminded me: "You can't put pressure on your opponent by missing first."

I played the right way most of the time - but the errors came at the wrong moments. Still, getting to feel what it's like to be in a final... I want that feeling again.

Doing It the Hard Way

I've lost matches I really wanted to win.
I've felt disappointed.
I've replayed points in my head over and over.
But I never thought of giving up. Not once.
I kept showing up. I kept working. I kept believing.
And that's why this final means so much.

Thank You

To my coaches, my team, my academy, and my family - thank you. You've helped me trust myself more every week. To the donors who have supported me - your belief makes this dream possible. Every step I take on court is because of the foundation you've helped me build. Thank you for being part of this journey.

What's Next

I've got four ITF tournaments left before I turn 15. I want to keep building. Keep improving. Keep showing what I can do. One match. One step. One point at a time. Let's go. ?

- Lyndsey