Renault South Africa Davis Cup Team Announced for Nigeria Tie

Johannesburg, South Africa, 22 January 2025 – Tennis South Africa (TSA) and Renault South Africa have announced a groundbreaking three-year partnership, with Renault South Africa coming on board as the federation’s official vehicle partner.

As part of this partnership, the national Davis Cup team will receive a significant boost, with Renault South Africa becoming the sponsor of the team. Moving forward, the national squad will be known as the Renault Davis Cup Team.

In addition, Renault South Africa has secured naming rights to TSA’s Masters Tennis category, which is designed for players aged 30 and over (previously called Seniors Tennis). The category will now be known as Renault Masters Tennis.

“This marks a new era and an exciting time for tennis in South Africa. We are thrilled to partner with a vibrant and forward-thinking brand like Renault,” said TSA General Manager Anthony Moruthane.

“This partnership is not just about transportation – it’s about elevating the entire tennis experience in our country. Our teams will now travel in style and comfort, ensuring they are ready to perform at their best wherever they go.

“Additionally, our officials and staff will enjoy seamless travel, making it easier to deliver world-class tournaments across South Africa. Together with Renault, we are driving tennis forward, one kilometre at a time!”

Renault South Africa’s Marketing GM, Lee-Anne Stanton, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, “We are very thrilled to partner with TSA and be associated with tennis, not only as a mobility partner but also as part of the progression and upliftment of the sport in South Africa.

“Renault’s connection to the tennis world is already well established through our involvement with the Roland Garros Grand slam in Paris. Now, we are bringing that same energy to our local courts in South Africa.

“This partnership allows us to promote the Renault brand and showcase our vehicle range to an upmarket target audience while supporting a sport that brings communities together. We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to making a tangible impact on tennis with our extensive Dealer Network on board.”

Renault SA Davis Cup Team Announced for Nigeria Tie

Following the partnership announcement, newly appointed captain Pietie Norval named a strong four-man team to represent South Africa in the Davis Cup World Group II playoff tie against Nigeria. The tie will take place at Groenkloof Tennis Stadium in Pretoria on 1-2 February.

All three players from South Africa’s previous tie against Lebanon in September – Philip Henning, Alec Beckley, and Leo Matthysen – have retained their places in the squad. Additionally, Kris van Wyk has been recalled to the team.

Henning and Beckley played in the four rubbers contested in the 3-1 defeat to Lebanon, while 18-year-old Matthysen, who did not compete in that tie, retains his spot. Van Wyk, who last played for South Africa in February 2023 against Vietnam, makes a welcome return to the squad.

Henning, Van Wyk, and Beckley are all ranked among the top 700 players globally in both singles and doubles. Rising star Matthysen will gain valuable experience as part of the squad.

“The players are very well prepared, with Philip Henning performing exceptionally well at the end of last season, winning two ITF World Tour events in Stellenbosch. Kris van Wyk reached the finals, and Alec Beckley made the semifinals,” said Norval, who will captain the team for the first time after his four-year appointment.

“These players are in form, and they will be preparing at high altitude. I believe they will be ready for the tie. While we’re currently uncertain about the strength of Nigeria’s team, we will prepare as if facing a strong opponent. Good preparation can make the difference, and I will ensure we’re fully prepared.

“I think our team is strong enough for this tie, and we look forward to representing our country.”

The winner of the World Group II playoff clash, played on outdoor hard courts, will advance to compete in a World Group II tie in September. The losing team will participate in a regional Group III event later in the year.