Bahrain 2025 – ATF Under 14 Grade A Tournament
Day Seven: Final day of the tournament
As usual, we were up early for breakfast and headed straight to the tennis federation for our last matches. We had a great warm-up on the central court, hitting with some of the remaining main draw players. At the end of the session, we focused specifically on first serves—our percentages over the last two days hadn’t been good, so we made some minor technical adjustments. It felt better, and we hoped it would hold up in the match.
Rafa stepped onto the court today with a different mindset—more composed, more strategic, and with greater clarity in his shot selection. He had real chances against Asia’s No. 40, but once again, the difference in experience showed in the key moments. Rafa rushed a few decisions under pressure, and that opened the door for his opponent. Still, it was a step forward, and one of his most complete matches of the week.
For both Rafa and Isabella, this tournament has been a great milestone. We now have a much clearer picture of where we stand on the tour—technically, physically, and mentally. We know what needs to be addressed in training, and we understand the level required to climb toward the top of the Asian rankings.
Our final single match was cancelled due to a walkover, which means Rafa finishes in an excellent 14th position, and Isabella at 16th out of 64 players in each draw—strong results in a high-level Grade A event.
Last night we wrapped things up with a well-earned dinner and a long, thoughtful conversation—about future tournaments, training blocks, but also the habits and routines that make a real difference on tour. Nutrition, hydration, warm-ups, cool-downs, time management, sleep—those small details become essential as the level rises. It was a valuable moment for Rafa, and a reminder that learning happens off the court just as much as on it.
Tomorrow we’ll have a friendly practice match with Asia’s No. 50—no pressure, just a good chance to test what we’ve learned before heading to the airport and flying home. A fantastic experience overall. I’m proud of both players—for their fight, their growth, and their willingness to learn. And for me, it’s always a privilege to be part of that journey. The passion to help young players develop never fades.
Thanks to everyone who followed the blog this week, and to CFTA for the continued support in helping these players become their best.