Thinley Namgay 

Kelzang Lhatsho Tshering will face a Brunei opponent today in the second round of the ongoing International Tennis Federation (ITF) Asia 14 and Under Development Championships 2025 in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

This consolation match will mark the end of the tournament for Bhutan. The second round concludes tomorrow, wrapping up the event for all participating countries.

Representing Bhutan at the championship are Kuendhen Rigsel Dorjee from Phuentsholing Lower Secondary School in Chukha and Kelzang Lhatsho Tshering from Lungtenzampa Middle Secondary School in Thimphu. Both players were accompanied by Coach Tashi Dorji from the Bhutan Tennis Federation.

In the second round, both Bhutanese players were eliminated in their respective boys’ and girls’ singles categories after suffering defeats against players from Pakistan and Nepal. The consolation round, designed for players who lose in the main draw, allowed them to gain additional match experience.

Coach Tashi Dorji remarked that despite limited training opportunities, both players showcased notable improvements and gave their best performances.

During the first round held from January 13 to 16, Bhutan’s representatives faced early exits. Kuendhen lost to players from the Philippines and Pakistan, while Kelzang was defeated by competitors from Nepal and the Philippines.

In the consolation round, Kuendhen from Mongar advanced after receiving a bye and later defeated two Mongolian players, earning the title of consolation champion. Kelzang from Paro lost to Nepal but managed a win against Brunei.

The ITF Asia 14 and Under Development Championships 2025, running from January 10 to 24, serves as a regional qualifying event for South East and East Asian countries. Ten countries—Bhutan, Bangladesh, Brunei, Laos, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, and Sri Lanka—are participating with 37 athletes, including 21 boys and 16 girls.

At the end of the first round, Kuendhen ranked 17th out of 21 boys, while Kelzang finished 15th among 16 girls. In the second round, Kuendhen ranked last. Kelzang’s final standing will depend on her performance against Brunei today.

Bhutan was unable to participate in the doubles category due to limited player representation.

The tournament is part of ITF’s initiative to develop tennis at the grassroots level, providing young players with opportunities to build confidence, gain exposure, and learn from international peers.

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