Sarawakian Youth Stages Comeback To Capture U16 Melaka Junior Title Tennis Competition
MELAKA: Sarawak’s 14 year old Ryoga Kho from SMK Kuching High produced an impressive comeback to win the Boys’ Under-16 Singles title at the KLK TennisMalaysia Junior Tour SportExcel 2026, Leg 5 Melaka, held at the Kompleks Tenis Ayer Keroh.
Competing in the higher Under-16 category, Ryoga defeated 15-year-old Fawwaz Mustaqeem Kamaruzzaman of Negeri Sembilan in a thrilling final, fighting back from a set down to win 3-6, 6-0, 7-5.
The Under-16 category featured a 32-player draw, giving Ryoga the opportunity to test himself against older and more experienced players.
The deciding third set proved to be the biggest test. Ryoga was trailing 1-4 before fighting back to level at 4-4. Fawwaz regained the advantage at 5-4, but Ryoga responded strongly to level at 5-5 before winning the next two games to complete the comeback and claim the title.
The victory was particularly meaningful for Ryoga as it was his first win over Fawwaz, making the championship one of his most memorable victories to date.
The tournament, held from 5 to 9 August 2026, brought together junior players competing across different age categories, with Ryoga and Fawwaz meeting in the Under-16 Boys Singles final on Centre Court on Sunday morning.
Ryoga’s latest achievement also reflects his continued development under Coach Norhairi Khaider through the PTBS Junior Development Programme. The programme has provided him with structured training and regular competition opportunities as he continues to take on stronger and older opponents.
The title adds another important achievement to Ryoga’s 2026 season and provides further confidence as he continues his progression towards higher levels of junior and senior competition. — UKASnews
