First WTA action reminds Tenny Madis of what it takes to be elite

MANILA, Philippines – For half a set, Tennielle “Tenny” Madis flashed why she is the No. 2 Filipina player in her round of 32 clash with Thailand’s Mananchaya Sawangkaew in the Philippine Women’s Open.

The tide turned in the second set, though, as Madis absorbed a 6–4, 6–0 loss to exit the country’s first-ever WTA 125 event.

The result stung, but Madis said the experience is still a step forward in her growth.

“There was a lot of learning. I really need to improve more,” said the 18-year-old Madis, who entered the tournament’s main draw via wildcard spot.

“One of the biggest learnings is to have a sharp mentality because just one negative thought could affect your match. So you really need to have a positive mind,” she added. 

Madis rallied from down 2-4 and forced a 4-4 deadlock in the first set before Sawangkaew’s composure prevailed as the Thai blanked the Filipina the rest of the way.

Still, it was a promising showcase for Madis in front of the home crowd following a week of training alongside world No. 49 Alex Eala and Filipino-American Mia Horvit.

For Madis, playing against someone of Sawangkaew’s caliber can push her to be a better player as she heads to the collegiate ranks with the University of Hawaii.

“It’s an honor to play against her,” Madis said of Sawangkaew, who lost to Eala in the women’s singles finals of the Southeast Asian Games in Thailand in December. 

“She’s a good and experienced player. All I can say is that it’s a great learning opportunity for me to play with her.”

Having also faced Madis in the SEA Games, Sawangkaew said the Filipina has “improved a lot.”

“Played against her in the SEA Games last time, so this time, she played much better,” Sawangkaew said of Madis.

“I can feel she can be a good player in the future.”

For now, Madis returns to the Philippine Tennis Academy as she prepares for her next career step.

“I had many struggles and challenges before the tournament but it was a great opportunity and privilege to play in such a prestigious tournament,” Madis said. 

“I just want to stay and enjoy the process and really be patient.” – Rappler.com