Zambia’s rising tennis sensation, Kombe Mabo Jr, is making waves on the international stage after a breakout performance at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) J30 tournament held in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. At just 15 years old, the self-sponsored teenager has captured the attention of the tennis world by earning his first-ever ITF points in a stunning display of talent and determination.
Kombe Jr entered the tournament through the qualifying rounds, facing a field of experienced and well-supported young athletes. Undeterred by the odds, the young Zambian proved his mettle with a composed and tactical approach to each match. After receiving a bye in the first round of qualifiers, he went on to defeat Zimbabwe’s Casey Cox with a commanding 6-2, 6-1 victory, showcasing exceptional court awareness, powerful baseline play, and athletic agility.
His strong start set the tone for a remarkable campaign in Bulawayo, where he consistently demonstrated maturity and resilience far beyond his age. Each match added to his growing reputation as one of Zambia’s most promising tennis talents. What made Kombe Jr’s success even more inspiring was his journey as a self-sponsored player — a rarity in international youth tennis, where financial backing often plays a major role in advancement.
Kombe’s performance not only secured him his first ITF ranking points but also placed him firmly on the radar of international scouts and tennis development programs. His achievement has sparked excitement within Zambia’s tennis community, where calls are growing louder for more support for junior athletes with international potential.
As he returns home, Kombe Mabo Jr carries not only a boost in his global ranking but also the hopes of a nation eager to see one of its own rise through the ranks of international tennis. With continued dedication, strategic support, and the right training opportunities, Kombe Jr could well be on his way to becoming Zambia’s next sporting icon.
His journey in Bulawayo stands as a powerful example of how talent and tenacity can overcome structural challenges. For Kombe Mabo Jr, this is just the beginning.