Tennis Brilliance on Full Display: Saint Lucia’s Independence Tournament Reaches Thrilling Finale

The Saint Lucia Independence Tennis Tournament has delivered six days of intense, high-caliber competition, showcasing the remarkable skill, resilience, and determination of the nation's top tennis talents. With the theme "Douvan Ansamn"—Moving Forward Together—the tournament has been a testament to unity, sportsmanship, and the unrelenting pursuit of excellence. As we enter the final day, more champions will emerge, capping off an unforgettable week of tennis.

In the Green Ball Under-10 category, Kimari Felix played Joshua Harte for the gold medal, with Kimari emerging victorious. The match showcased a significant improvement from Harte, who demonstrated a higher level of play. Though he placed second, the match was an excellent showdown for the Under-10 title.

In the Girls Under-12 category, Skai Sammy defeated Taije Charles for the championship. Sammy dominated Charles in straight sets, 4-0, 4-0. Sammy, a recent semi-finalist at the regional tournament in Trinidad, showcased her skills and experience on the court. We congratulate both athletes for their performances.

In the Boys Under-12 final, Kimari Felix, who previously defeated Jelani Flamius in straight sets, faced off against Riley Smith, the recent regional champion of the Boys Under-10 category. Smith secured his first Under-12 title by defeating Felix 4-2, 4-0. Smith is a strategic and composed player, letting his strokes do the talking. His placement and shot selection were remarkable, as he confidently took control of the match.

 The Battles That Defined Day 6
 Girls' Under-14 Singles Final: Justin's Grit Earns Her Second Title
Merkisha Justin captured her first local Under-14 title in an electrifying showdown against Samuella Bertrand. The match was a true rollercoaster, with both players exchanging momentum and battling through long rallies. Bertrand fought fiercely, keeping Justin on her toes, but when it mattered most, Justin showcased her composure and tactical intelligence. The match was ultimately decided in a thrilling tiebreak, where Justin's relentless spirit secured her the championship.

Boys' Under-14 Singles Final: Estava's Grit Outlasts Charles' Brilliance
The Boys' Under-14 final was nothing short of spectacular. Denney Estava and Immanuel Charles delivered a match filled with shot-making mastery and strategic play. Charles was in his element, executing powerful groundstrokes and showcasing his full arsenal of shots, but Estava countered with sheer determination, retrieving seemingly impossible balls and striking at the right moments. In the end, Estava's endurance and tactical discipline saw him clinch the title, proving that persistence triumphs over power.

Women's Doubles Final: A Stunning Comeback
The women's doubles final was an instant classic, featuring a dramatic three-setter between Scyla Murray & Iyana Paul and Annakie Arlette & Jaelyn Henry. Arlette and Henry appeared to be in full control, leading throughout the match and dictating play. But Paul and Murray refused to surrender, turning the tables in the second set and forcing a decisive third. With the crowd on edge, they completed a remarkable comeback, triumphing 3-6, 7-6, 7-5. The match epitomized the unpredictability of tennis—where sheer willpower can turn the tide.

 Men's Doubles Showdowns: A Display of Power and Precision
Ahlil Cyril & Vernon Lewis battled Peterson George & Brent St Catherine in a gruelling three-setter, marked by long, nail-biting rallies, spectacular winners, and tactical brilliance. Cyril and Lewis demonstrated their vast experience, ultimately prevailing to book their spot in the final. They will now face the formidable Hunte brothers, Trevor and Colin, who secured their place with a commanding performance against Anthony Habib & David Cooper, winning in straight sets. The Hunte brothers, seasoned competitors known for their synchronized team play, are set to provide a thrilling finale against Cyril and Lewis.

 Boys' Under-14 Doubles: A Dominant Display
Immanuel Charles & Jelani Flermius took on Denney Estava & Tahj Goodman in the Boys' Under-14 doubles, where Estava and Goodman dictated the match from start to finish. They capitalized on their opponents' weaknesses, demonstrating seamless coordination and superior strategy to make the match look effortless. They will now battle for the championship title today.

In another exciting semifinal, Taeo Lewis & Kyle Michel-Francois clashed with the Rosemond brothers, Armani & Aiden, in a fiercely contested battle. Lewis and Michel-Francois emerged victorious but not before being pushed to their limits by the Rosemond brothers, who showcased remarkable teamwork and tenacity.

The Final Day: A Grand Conclusion
The tournament's final day promises more enthralling matches as Saint Lucia's top players compete for the ultimate glory.

Today's Championship Matches:

• Men's Singles Final: Vernon Lewis vs. Peterson George.
• Girls' Under-18 Singles Final: Iyana Paul vs. Jaelyn Henry 
• Boys' Under-18 Singles Final: Denney Estava vs. Elliot Anthony
• Men's Doubles Final: Vernon Lewis & Ahlil Cyril vs. Trevor & Colin Hunte. 
• Girls' Under-14 Doubles Final: Samuella Bertrand & Merkisha Justin vs. Skai Sammy & Joelle Habib.
• Girls' Development Doubles Final: Taije Charles & Ezabela Charles vs. Karina Lambert & Kiara Lambert

The anticipation is at an all-time high, as each of these finals promises to deliver exhilarating rallies, tactical battles, and unforgettable moments.

As the tournament reaches its crescendo, we extend our gratitude to the Saint Lucia Tennis Association for their commitment to nurturing the nation's tennis talent and fostering a culture of excellence. Special thanks to the tournament team, the National Tennis Center staff, referees, umpires, parents, and the dedicated spectators who have cheered on these incredible athletes.
This tournament, held under the banner "Douvan Ansamn", has exemplified what it means to move forward together—united as one sport, one community. As we celebrate our champions today, we look ahead with excitement, knowing that the future of Saint Lucian tennis is brighter than ever.