The promotion to Group IV of the Davis Cup, Africa zone, marks a significant milestone for Malagasy tennis.
Held at the fifth continental tier for three years, the national team managed to cross this threshold last weekend in Brazzaville, despite numerous constraints. The personal involvement of captain Rija Rajaobelina played a decisive role in this success.
For Dally Randriantefy, National Technical Director of the Malagasy Tennis Federation, Captain Rija Rajaobelina’s role was essential in this Congolese campaign. “The captain did an incredible job, given the difficulties we faced,” the DTN emphasized.
For the Davis Cup matches, Rija Rajaobelina had to manage a squad that was far from complete and weakened before the competition. Antso Rakotondramanga and Valentin Rakotondrasoa were injured, while Lucas Andriamasilalao had family obligations. Tovonirina, meanwhile, was found ineligible, a situation that had not been anticipated due to his passport being acquired less than two years ago.
In this turbulent context, the captain had to keep the group united and mobilized around a common goal. His experience and hard work were invaluable in allowing the players to remain focused despite preparation difficulties and sometimes complicated conditions on site.
For the DTN, this ability to unite was a major contributor to the Malagasy success. “The fact that they qualified this year is the result of exceptional team cohesion and a strong patriotic spirit,” said Dally Randriantefy. The qualification was decided by a very narrow margin, with the decisive match swinging by only two points.
After the promotion, the captain expressed his joy: “I am happy. Happy because it is four months of hard work and because it was an important goal for Malagasy tennis. Happy for all the people who contributed; it is an achievement. We will savor it, but we will have to get back to work soon,” he confided.
Grateful, the DTN praised the five players of this adventure, while particularly highlighting the commitment of Rija Rajaobelina, the true guide of the selection in Brazzaville. This promotion rewards a collective that knew how to overcome obstacles.
From now on, Madagascar will have to prepare for a greater challenge. “Without putting on pressure, I think that next year, our team will be better prepared to face Group IV,” concluded Dally Randriantefy.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-28 05:54:20 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/tennis-coupe-davis-2026-rajaobelina.html