Michael Ritchie (75) has made it into the World Tennis Team. The resident of a retirement village in Geduld has always been passionate about playing tennis.
“I started playing tennis at 11. My parents played, so I went to the tennis club with them.”
He became a member of the Springs Tennis Club when he was 38. He would end up moving away a few times, but would always rejoin when he came back.
Michael, fondly referred to as Mike, recalls his best memories as a passionate tennis player.
“My best memories are all in the form of the good friends I have made throughout my tennis career.”
He started playing in the Masters tennis tournaments and senior inter-provincials for Gauteng East at the age of 70.
“This is where you receive Tennis South Africa rankings in your age group from which they choose the various teams.”
When they announced the teams and they picked him, Mike was very happy to hear his name being called out.
“I felt good and I am proud that I am still playing at 75.”
Mike says there is a lot that goes into playing tennis internationally, which includes travelling.
“This year, our age group is playing in Turkey. The first week you play team events, and afterwards, you can play in the individual events. This year we have 16 countries participating in our group.”
Mike says he is not ready to stop playing just yet.
“I have quite a few friends who are considerably older than me who still play regularly.
“I always say tennis is a life game.”
Mike says even though this is the experience of a lifetime, the costs are high.
“Unfortunately, the trip is mostly self-funded, so one needs to do a lot of fundraising as the costs are high.”
A BackaBuddy account has been opened for him.
To support Mike, go to https://www.backabuddy.co.za/champion/project/michael-ritchie-5801172236817222532
“Tennis is a large part of my life,” he said.
