River Hakena of Papua New Guinea won the Extra Fiji Tennis Fiji Open Under-14 Boys Singles, defeating Matthew Leherle of New Caledonia in a thrilling final played yesterday.
The young champion beamed with pride after his win.
“It feels great to beat Matthew on this grass court. I feel happy, thank you to my supporters back home and especially to my mum,” Hakena said.
When asked about his mindset during tough moments on court, Hakena shared what keeps him grounded.
“I just think of my family, what they’ve done for me and I just keep going,” he added.
Hakena’s dedication off the court is just as impressive.
“I train every day. I wake up at 6am and train till 7am, go home, and then train again at lunchtime and at night. I only rest on Sundays,” he revealed.
Hakena explained his dance style post match.
“Just to release some anger,” he laughed.
With discipline, passion, and strong family support, River Hakena is a rising star to watch in Pacific tennis.
